Statewide Tornado Drill

THIS IS ONLY A DRILL: This is a reminder for the Statewide Tornado Drill that begins at 9:45 a.m. today on March 22, 2016.

The tornado drill is an important statewide safety drill to prepare for nature’s most violent storms. Virginia has been hit hard in the past by multiple tornadoes which have cost lives and left extensive damage.

When it comes to tornadoes, there is no such thing as a “tornado season.” Tornadoes can strike anywhere, anytime, and you need to know the drill. Be prepared to act quickly.

A Tornado Watch is a report that a tornado is possible in your area. You should monitor weather-alert radios and local radio and TV stations for information.

A Tornado Warning is a report that a tornado has been sighted in the area. Take the necessary actions to protect yourself during a tornado.

PREPARE TO PROTECT YOURSELF: 

• When a warning is issued, immediately take cover.
• Move to a designated shelter such as a basement or windowless room.
• Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect head and neck.
• If outdoors with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Do not get under an overpass or bridge.
• Get out of vehicles and go to the closest shelter.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in an urban or congested area.

After the tornado has passed, check for any injuries, look out for broken glass, downed power lines and use caution around damaged structures.

Find additional information on the Statewide Tornado Drill by visitinghttp://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stayinformed/tornadoes.

For more on emergency preparedness in Fairfax County, contact the Office of Emergency Management at 571-350-1000; email oem@fairfaxcounty.gov. Emergency preparedness materials are available from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) at http://www.vaemergency.gov and the Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management athttp://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency.

Source: http://fairfaxcity.com/statewide-tornado-drill/