Preparation first step in tornado safety plans Published Feb. 20, 2009 By Steve Serrette 72nd Air Base Wing Safety Office TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- There are few words in the English language that bring about as much concern as the word "tornado." Of all nature's moods, this is perhaps the most violent. Though not as large-scale as a hurricane, or as long-lived as a Nor'easter, this particular severe weather event has occurred in every state, including Alaska and Hawaii. As a matter of fact, the average life cycle of one is only eight-minutes, but it can be the longest eight-minutes of one's life. Tornados have occurred at virtually every time of the day, sometimes at night and early morning. Most often in the afternoon or early evening. Tornadoes are storm-related events requiring a relatively rare combination of atmospheric conditions for them to form. Even so, there are approximately 1,000 of them annually in the United States. Knowing that an area is prone to tornadoes is the first step to becoming prepared for one. Know what the immediate, short-term or long-term potential is for severe weather in the area. The key to being safe is to have a plan. Knowing what to do when a tornado is approaching will help you get out of harm's way, fast. Currently, there are two stages of alert in place. A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for the formation of a tornado. A tornado warning means that a tornadic event has been detected, either by radar or by trained storm spotters relaying information to the National Weather Service. Be aware of what the experts are saying the potential is for severe weather. Be aware of local warning systems. Also, a NOAA weather radio is an easily affordable and easily acquired appliance that can keep you abreast of developing situations. Have a safe area to go to like the most interior room without windows on the lowest floor possible and have helmets for head protection. Even better, if possible have an underground shelter or above-ground safe room in which to seek refuge. Keep items like credit cards, emergency cash, a porta-potty, pet food, water, a change of clothes and shoes and other valuables in a plastic box that you can easily grab and take to the shelter. Don't forget your pets. Keep the proper insurance on your vehicle, home and its belongings. At work, know your shelter location and be familiar with the proceedings that could inevitably save your life. Think ahead.