The Worthington Fire Department wants to share this life safety information with you now that tornado season has arrived. Although we've been fortunate in our immediate area regarding tornadoes, Ohio sees many each year. Do you know what to do to stay safe? These tips will help . . .

What you can do ahead of time:

• Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, school and when outdoors
• Have frequent drills
• Have a NOAA weather radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warning information
• When the alarm tone sounds, turn on your radio and television for the latest tornado watches and warning update information

What to listen for:

Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms. Sirens will sound with a high and low sound for 3 minutes.

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar, within the county or area covered by the emergency broadcast system. Sirens will sound for 3 minutes with a steady tone. If a tornado warning is issued for your area and the sky becomes threatening, move to your pre-designated place of safety.

What to look for:

Dark, greenish sky
Large hail
Wall of clouds
Loud roar; similar to a train

What to do when threatening weather approaches:

• In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement
• If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor, and get under a sturdy piece of furniture
• Stay away from windows
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave the car immediately
• If caught outside, lie flat on the ground, preferably in a ditch or depression

What to have in your disaster preparedness kit:

• First Aid Kit with essential medications (keep in water proof container)
• Battery powered radio and spare batteries (keep in water proof container)
• Canned and other non-perishable food
• Bottled water
• Written instructions on how to turn off your home utilities