Texas has more tornadoes than any other state. Flying debris and being trapped in collapsed buildings is the primary cause of tornado deaths throughout the country. The safest place to be during a tornado is a reinforced, windowless room or shelter designed specifically to protect against tornadoes and other dangerous situations. If in a car or mobile home, get out and seek indoor shelter as described below. Cars and mobile homes are not safe during a tornado.
A specially constructed, reinforced residential safe room or community shelter affords the best protection during a tornado or other severe weather.
2. Storm Cellar or Basement
Windowless underground or partially underground rooms such as a basement are a good choice during tornado activity. If the basement has windows, stay away from them.3. Small, Interior Room on Lowest Level
If no basement is available during a tornado, go to the lowest level of the building and find a small interior room such as a closet or bathroom. 4. Interior Hallway at Lowest Level
A small, interior hallway on the lowest level of the building will provide some protection. Avoid windows, doorways, and exterior walls. Keep yourself covered and protect your head.5. Any Small, Interior Room
In a high-rise building, shopping center, factory, or school or when unable to get safely to a lower floor, choose a small interior room or small hallway during a tornado. Avoid exterior walls and windows. Stay out of large hallways, away from skylights, and out of large warehouse-like rooms or auditoriums.6. Under a Heavy Table
If no other options are available when a tornado strikes, get under a heavy piece of furniture such as a table or workbench and hold on to it.7. Ditch or Low-Lying Area
When caught outdoors and unable to reach suitable shelter, crouch down or lie in a ditch or other low place in the ground and cover your head and neck with your arms. Watch out for flooding. Do not seek shelter under an overpass or bridge. These are not safe places to be during a tornado.
