10 ways to protect you and your family during a tornado

In light of recent severe weather in Ermelo and Cassim Park, where strong winds caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure, it’s essential to be prepared for the possibility of a tornado.

This extreme weather event was a stark reminder of the importance of knowing what to do when severe storms strike.

ALSO READ: Understanding the different types of tornadoes and circulating winds

Here are vital tips to help you stay safe:

• The best shelter for protection against a tornado is a basement. In the likely event that there is not a basement in your house, head towards a room without windows on the lowest level of your house or building.
• Cover yourself with pillows, a mattress or blankets.
• Put as many walls between you and the storm outside as possible.
• If you are on holiday, take note that caravans are extremely dangerous during a tornado. Seek shelter elsewhere if possible.
• Avoid windows. Despite the popular belief that opening windows will minimise the pressure and damage of the storm, it will actually lower your protection against the tornado.
• Be aware of the provinces, cities and towns near you. It will be easier to track a tornado’s direction if you are familiar with the geography of your location.
• If you are in a vehicle, get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of the nearest stable building. If there are no buildings in the area, lie flat in a ditch and protect your head with your hands.
• Do not seek shelter under a bridge.

As recent events have shown, severe weather can strike quickly and with little warning. By knowing these steps and acting quickly, you can improve your safety and that of your family during a tornado.

ALSO SEE:

Ermelo faces extensive damage amidst unconfirmed tornado reports
UPDATE: SA Weather Services weigh in on tornado claims in Ermelo
Storm in Ermelo wreaks havoc