Joplin storm reminds: Prepare, act

By The Gazette Editorial Board

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The devastation in Joplin, Mo., from a monster tornado Sunday shook our hearts and nerves.

The nation's deadliest single storm in 60 years killed at least 117 people and tore a half-mile-wide, 6-mile-long path of utter destruction through the heart of the southwest Missouri town of about 50,000 - just one month after multiple storms killed 314 in the South.

We can't help a “what if”: The Parkersburg tornado of 2008, as powerful or more so than Joplin's, destroyed about one-third of that small community and killed seven people. What if that storm had veered through the heart of a much larger city, such as nearby Waterloo and Cedar Falls? Almost unimaginable.

Joplin's tragedy should stir two immediate responses among Iowans.

Help the survivors and community of Joplin in whatever way you can - donating to the American Red Cross and Salvation Army, volunteering when the call is put out or comforting neighbors and friends hurt by this event.

Just as important, be sure your family knows how to prepare for and respond to the threat of an approaching tornado or severe thunderstorm. In this day of sophisticated electronic communication, the chances of not being warned are minimal. However, it's wise to review procedures and know where to find the safest shelter in your home, workplace or elsewhere.

Even with warning, you'll likely have only a few minutes to act if Mother Nature's worst heads your way.

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Tornado Tips

Have emergency supplies on hand - food, water, medications, batteries, flashlights, radio/weather radio.

l When a tornado approaches, take shelter indoors - preferably in a basement or an interior first-floor room or hallway.

l Avoid windows and seek additional protection by getting underneath large, solid pieces of furniture.

l Avoid automobiles and mobile homes, which provide almost no protection from tornadoes.

l If you are caught outside, lie flat in a depression or on other low ground and wait for the storm to pass.

SOURCE: National Geographic

l More information on what to do before, during and after a tornado: www.fema.gov/hazard/tornado/index.shtm.