If tornado forming conditions exist, or if severe weather is occurring, tune to a radio station (WOOD-AM 1300 is a good one), turn on a local TV station, or get on-line to view current information. Remember to always follow specific National Weather Service instructions.

First and foremost, once you hear that there is a possible tornado near your apartment, or that the conditions are right for a tornado, move to shelter immediately.

If you live in an apartment that is on an upper floor, get to the lowest level of the building that you can immediately. This could be the lower rear hallway (away from glass and outer doors) or a neighbor’s first floor apartment. If you cannot get downstairs, a closet, bathroom or interior hall without windows is the safest spot in your apartment during a tornado.

If and when a tornado is imminent, once you have relocated to your safe place, lie down on the floor and cover yourself up with pillows, blankets and even mattresses for protection from falling objects and debris. If your apartment’s safe place has a heavy piece of furniture, such as a large table, get under that for extra protection. Wearing a bicycle or similar helmet will help protect your head from injuries caused by flying debris.