Tornado

A tornado watch signifies that weather conditions exist that could produce tornadoes. A tornado warning indicates there has been a sighting or detection of an advancing tornado. If the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning, an emergency may be declared for the campus.

Actions

    As a precaution:

• Move quickly to an underground area such as a basement.
• If an underground area is not available, use:
• Small interior rooms without windows on the lowest floor.
• Hallways on the lowest floor away from doors and windows.
• Rooms constructed with reinforced concrete, brick, or block, with no windows and a heavy concrete floor or roof system.
• Any protected area away from doors and windows.

    As soon as the tornado passes:

• Evacuate–DO NOT use elevators.
• Assist those with special needs.
• If smoke or heat is present, do not open doors (see the section on Fire).
• Be alert to open or unprotected floor openings, shafts, etc.
• Avoid areas of potential collapse.
• Be alert for energized electrical equipment, wiring, fixtures, etc.
• Proceed to assembly area as directed by College or other emergency officials.
• Return to the building only when given the "all clear" signal by emergency personnel.