Seconds Count: Tornado Survival
When a tornado strikes, your reaction time is your best defense. These storms develop rapidly, often leaving only minutes—or even seconds—to find cover. By understanding where to go and how to protect yourself, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Follow these life-saving protocols to ensure you and your family stay safe when the sirens sound.
Immediate Action: The “Safe Room”
If a Tornado Warning is issued, you must act instantly. Do not wait to see the funnel.
- Get In: Get inside a sturdy building immediately.
- Get Low: Go to the lowest level possible (basement or storm cellar).
- Get Center: Find a small, interior room with no windows (closet, bathroom, or hallway). Put as many walls between you and the outside as possible.
- Cover Up: Use your arms to protect your head and neck. If possible, cover yourself with a mattress, thick blankets, or a helmet.
Mobile Home & Vehicle Safety (Critical)
- Mobile Homes: These are not safe during a tornado. Identify a sturdy "Safe Destination" (a neighbor's basement or a nearby brick building) before the storm hits. If a warning is issued, leave your mobile home for your pre-planned shelter immediately.
- In a Vehicle: Do not try to outrun a tornado. If you are caught in your car, get out and find a sturdy building. If no building is available, lie flat in a nearby ditch and cover your head. Never seek shelter under a bridge or overpass.
Warning Signs: Listen and Look
- The Roar: A loud, continuous rumble like a freight train.
- The Sky: A dark, greenish sky or a low-lying, rotating cloud of debris.
- The Alerts: Sign up for Hamilton Ready Alerts. Do not rely solely on outdoor sirens; they are not designed to wake you up or be heard inside your home.
Quick Links for Immediate Help During Active Events
CHA 311 – Report Fallen trees, blocked drains, or street debris.
Road Closures – Active road closures and train crossing blocks.
EPB Outage – View maps and report power outages.
Hamilton Ready Alerts – Sign up for text/email emergency notifications from Hamilton County.
911 Active Incidents – Real-time first responder activity.
Storms & Safety
Understanding City Closures
When a closure is announced, we shift to essential services.
| Department | Hours of Operation | Areas of Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 911/Fire/Police | 24/7 | |
| Trash & Recycling | 8am - 5pm | |
| Community Centers | Find your Community Center Hours |
