Surviving a direct hit from a tornado?

Question

I live in Florida........where having a basement is next to impossible unless you have the money to have one strategically dug out under your house.

What is my best chance of surviving a direct hit from a tornado? I live in a concrete-block apartment building on the 2nd floor. This building has withstood the test of time (35 years old).......plus many hurricanes (which I know delivers a totally different weather dynamic, but still.............)

So what are some proven ways for me to live just in case I can't get out in time?

Thanks,

Primo

Answer 1

We have a son who lives in Florida.  He is responsible for the safety of residents in several nursing homes.  These are safety tips he gave us in case of a tornado:

Avoid windows. Go to the lowest floor, small center room (like a bathroom or closet), under a stairwell, or in an interior hallway with no windows. Crouch as low as possible to the floor, facing down; and cover your head with your hands. A bath tub may offer a shell of partial protection. Even in an interior room, you should cover yourself with some sort of thick padding (mattress, blankets, etc.), to protect against falling debris in case the roof and ceiling fail.

He also said, If possible go to a room with an exit door.  This is so you will have a means of escape if part of the building collapses.

Answer 2

Darlin - coming from someone who lives in Tornado Alley... this is the best, most informative site I can refer you to.

http://www.prepare4disaster.com/tornadot...

You need to check with your local emergency services personnel about specifics of preparadness special to your area. You can call your police non-emergency number and ask them.

Peace.

Answer 3

The tips above are great. Living here in earthquake country (just had another last night) the important thing is preparation. This includes keeping fresh water on hand (your water heater is a good source), medical supplies including a fresh supply of personal medications, canned foods, etc. Hurricanes give you more notice than tornadoes. So cover your windows and drive out of the path if you can. You are pretty down South, so you might need to ride it out. I had ridden out a few up in the Pensacola area, and man, the wind sure do blow in them parts! Took out a huge tree in the backyard one time. Stay low and pray for a circle of protection around you and your family.