Tornadoes can cause a lot of damage, but learning what to do during a tornado can keep you and others safe in an emergency.

A Tornado Watch means conditions are right for a tornado. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted.

If you're home...

• If you have a basement, go there and seek shelter under sturdy furniture.
• If you don't have a basement, take cover in the center part of your house on the lowest floor. The best options are a small room, or else under sturdy furniture.
• Stay away from windows and keep them closed. Opening them lets strong winds into your house.

If you're in school, a shopping center, or another public place...

• Move to the pre-designated shelter areas.
• If you don't know where that is, move to a center hallway on the lowest floor.
• If the building you're in is old or unsafe, move quickly to a nearby newer building, or take cover outside on low, protected ground.
• Stay out of auditoriums, gymnasiums, and other structures with wide roofs — wide roofs can fall in during tornadoes.

If you're out in the open...

• Move away from the tornado's path at right angles.
• If there isn't time to get out of the way, lie down flat in the nearest ditch or ravine.

If you're in a car...

• Don't try to outrun a tornado.
• If possible, take shelter in a sturdy structure.
• Otherwise, get out of the car and move to the nearest ditch or depression until the tornado passes.

After a tornado, watch for broken glass and power lines that are downed. If you see people who are injured, don't move them unless they are in immediate danger. Call for help right away!

Tornadoes can be very scary. If you are scared, be sure to talk to someone about it.