Set aside time now to put a plan together and practice that plan ahead of the next severe weather event. 

The Department of Public Safety reminds you that now is the time to practice a response to tornado and severe thunderstorms. Doing so is an important step to minimize and prevent injury and even death during a severe storm.

Be prepared wherever you are:

At work, become familiar with the locations of restrooms and other interior safe areas. Determine the shortest way to get to a safe area. Forget about the old notion of opening windows to equalize pressure. Make sure to stay away from windows.

At home, have a family tornado plan in place, based on the kind of dwelling in which you live. Know where you can take shelter in a matter of seconds. Practice a family tornado drill at least once a year. Have a pre-determined place to meet after a disaster. When a tornado watch is issued, think about how you will react, and check to make sure all your safety supplies are handy. Turn on local television, radio or NOAA Weather Radio, and stay alert for warnings.

For more information on severe weather tips, visit https://stormaware.mo.gov/preparing-for-a-tornado/.