Foremost Insurance Group

Grand Rapids, MI – Thirty-six years ago, 148 tornadoes tore through 13 states over the span of two days and left a path of destruction covering more than 2,500 miles. Such an anniversary is a reminder of the destructive capabilities of nature and the importance of safety. That’s why Foremost® Insurance is reminding consumers of the steps to take in the event of a tornado.

Tornadoes can strike quickly, with little warning. Even if certain parts of the country haven’t been struck by a tornado recently, every state faces some tornado risk. “Personal safety is the first thing anyone should be concerned with during severe weather,” says Arron Lamp, vice president of Market Management for Foremost Insurance. “We want to help make sure all consumers know what to do in the event of a tornado.”

If a tornado warning is issued, take cover immediately, a tornado has been sighted.
If in a site-built house, go to the basement or storm cellar. If the house has no basement, choose an interior room on the lowest level, like a closet or bathroom, as far from doors, windows, corners and outside walls as possible. People should crouch down under a sturdy object, protecting their head and neck with their arms.
If inside a mobile or manufactured home, leave immediately! Even mobile homes equipped with tie-downs can be blown away by severe winds. Mobile home parks may have tornado shelters. Plan ahead and know the location of the designated shelter before severe weather strikes.
There are varying recommendations if caught outdoors. While both the Red Cross and FEMA first stress seeking shelter immediately, they differ on what to do if the only shelter is a car.
- The Red Cross now recommends a few different actions based on individual circumstances. They first suggest getting into the car and driving to the nearest sturdy shelter. If flying debris is spotted, they recommend getting off the road and parking. From there, one can choose to stay in the car with the seat belt buckled, crouching below the windows and covering the head with the hands; or, if it is safe to do so, a person can get out of the car and lie in a ditch or other depression lower than the roadway, covering the head with the hands.
- FEMA continues to recommend never trying to outrun a tornado. If no safe shelter is available, one should lie flat in a nearby ditch, covering the head with the hands.

For more tornado safety information, visit the severe events section of Foremost.com.

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