Quick Answer
Going outside during a tornado is extremely dangerous and should be avoided. However, if you are in a building with no basement, the safest location is often on an interior floor, in a hallway or corridor with no windows, and away from exterior walls. This location is often referred to as an "interior room" or "small interior space."
Choosing the Best Location
When a tornado warning is issued for your area, quickly assess the safest location in your building. If you are in a building with a basement, go there immediately. If the basement is not available, look for an interior room or small interior space on an interior floor. This is typically a room or area without windows, such as a closet, bathroom, or interior hallway.
Preparing Your Safe Room
Once you have identified your safe room, take the following steps to prepare: cover yourself and your head with a mattress, blanket, or other thick padding; get under a sturdy table or desk if available; and stay away from windows and exterior walls. If you are in a mobile home, do not stay in the home. Leave immediately and go to a sturdy building or shelter.
What to Expect in a Safe Room
When you are in your designated safe room, stay there until the tornado has passed. This may be 5-10 minutes or longer, depending on the severity of the storm. Listen to a battery-powered radio or a weather radio for updates on the storm’s location and severity. Do not try to leave your safe room until a trusted authority figure has given the all-clear.
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