Listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible. Whereas the following discussion emphasizes schools, it is important that hospitals, nursing homes, and other institutions have similar plans. Each school should be inspected and tornado areas designated. Teachers and students should know their designated shelter areas. Know what a tornado watch and warning mean.
Basements offer the best protection.
Schools without basements should use interior hallways on the lowest floor and away from windows. Never use gymnasiums, auditoriums, or other rooms with wide, free span roofs. Ensure that the NOAA Weather Radio is on and located where it can be heard. If the school's alarm system relies on electricity, have a compressed air horn or megaphone to activate the alarm in case of power failure. Make special provisions for disabled students and those in portable classrooms.