Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a storm. Having a list will help you remember things that may be broken or blown away in strong winds.
Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed. Make trees more wind resistant by removing diseased or damaged limbs, then strategically remove branches so that wind can blow through. Strong winds frequently break weak limbs and hurl them at great speed, causing damage or injury when they hit. Debris collection services may not be operating just before a storm, so it is best to do this well in advance of approaching storms.
Remove any debris or loose items in your yard. Branches and firewood may become missiles in strong winds.
Consider installing permanent shutters to cover windows. Shutters can be closed quickly and provide the safest protection for windows.
Strengthen garage doors. Garage doors are often damaged or destroyed by flying debris, allowing strong winds to enter. As winds apply pressure to the walls, the roof can be lifted off, and the rest of the house can easily follow.
Disaster Supply Kit
Please see the section Disaster Supply Kit for general supply kit information. Tornado-specific supplies should include the following:
A highway map to follow storm movement from weather bulletins