What is the safest house in a tornado? Learn how to protect your family.

When it comes to seeking shelter during a tornado, safety is the number one priority. While no home is completely immune to the powerful winds and debris that come with a tornado, there are certain steps homeowners can take to increase their chances of staying safe. Here are some of the safest places inside your house to shelter in case of a tornado:

Basement: The basement is one of the safest spots, as it provides a solid structure with no windows. If your home has one, make sure to use it during a tornado warning.

Interior room with no windows: If you don’t have a basement, the next safest spot is an interior room on the first floor with no windows. A bathroom or closet or even a central hallway can be safe options.

Underneath something solid: No matter where you choose to shelter, it’s important to get underneath something solid, such as a large table or workbench. This can help protect you from flying debris and falling objects.

Remember, being prepared and knowing what to do in case of a tornado can save lives. Consider making a plan with your family and practicing it regularly so that everyone knows where to go and what to do in case of an emergency.

Basement: The Safest Place During a Tornado

The basement is undoubtedly the safest place to be during a tornado. If you have a basement in your home, it is highly recommended that you head there immediately in the event of a tornado warning. Remember to bring a radio so that you can stay informed of the weather updates. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends staying in the basement until the tornado has passed, and waiting for the all-clear signal before emerging. This is because tornadoes can sometimes generate multiple vortexes, and the second one can be as deadly as the first. If you don’t have a basement, an interior room on the first floor is the next best option.

Interior Rooms: The Alternative Safe Haven

If you don’t have a basement, an interior room with no windows on the floor below is the next best option. Such rooms can include a bathroom, a closet, or a central hallway. These options are beneficial because they are less prone to complete destruction in the event of a tornado. If you are in a two-story home, it is recommended that you do not remain upstairs, as this can lead to greater danger. It is better to remain on the first floor, ensuring that you are in a secure and sturdy interior room.

Say No to Windows – Protect Yourself during a Tornado

One of the biggest risks during a tornado is being struck by shattered glass from windows. If you have time before the tornado arrives, do your best to cover all the windows using any materials you have readily available, such as blankets, mattresses, or even rugs. If you find yourself in a room with large windows, try to move to another room if possible. Remember that being near windows increases your chances of injury and it’s best to avoid them at all costs.

Don’t Panic, Locate Central Hallways for Safety

If you aren’t sure where to go or don’t have a designated safe room, locate a central hallway and hunker down there. Again, it’s best to choose a hallway that is on the ground floor and has as few windows as possible. This is because central hallways are more structurally sound and offer a greater amount of protection than other parts of the home. You can take some precautionary steps by lying low and protecting your head with your arms until the tornado passes.

Bathroom: A Convenient and Safe Hideout During a Tornado

When a tornado warning goes off, the bathroom can be a safe place to ride it out. Bathrooms have strong fixtures and, if available, a heavy and sturdy bathtub that can provide protection. Close the door and stay in the bathtub with a mattress or blankets covering you for extra protection. Again, be sure to protect your head as debris can fall from the ceiling during the tornado. You can also use the bathroom sink as a shield and stay close to it and below it for added protection.

Closet: A Safe Alternative to Basement during a Tornado

If a bathroom is not available, the walk-in closet in a bedroom can be an excellent alternative. Since closets are enclosed spaces, they can offer added protection in the event of a tornado, especially if they are well-constructed. You can lie in the closet with a door covering you and place a mattress or blankets on top of you. Make sure your feet are facing the door since it’s the sturdiest part of the closet.

Get Underneath: How to Protect Yourself Against a Tornado

If you cannot get to a designated safe room, or you find yourself in a room with a sturdy table or workbench, the best course of action is to quickly get underneath it. This is because the table will serve as a shield, protecting you from any debris that flies into the room during the tornado. Make sure that you are lying flat, covering your head to prevent injuries.

Large Table or Work Bench: A Shield during a Tornado

Large tables, such as dining tables or sturdy work benches, can act as a protective barrier during a tornado. Quickly move to a table or bench and crouch beneath it while covering your head with your arms. Make sure that the furniture is stable and that it cannot easily topple over. You can quickly search for any residing spaces with large tables and identify them as your safe place to take cover during a tornado. In conclusion, tornadoes are dangerous and unpredictable natural disasters that require quick and efficient thinking to ensure survival. It’s best to be prepared ahead of time by having a designated safe room that is free from windows and is structurally sound. However, if you do not have a safe room available, make sure to choose an interior room with as few windows as possible and get underneath something solid. Remember, do not panic, and stay informed about the weather conditions by listening to a radio. Always keep your disaster preparedness kit ready.