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If you live in an area where there is a potential for tornadoes, it is important to be prepared and know what to do in the event of severe weather. Here are the top 5 tips for how to dress when a tornado warning has been issued as recommended by tornado survivors.
1. Wear Sturdy Shoes
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes that you can walk in easily. Tornadoes will often leave behind debris and rain, so it is important to have footwear that will protect your feet, keep them dry, and allow you to move around safely.
"Wear shoes that tie. I was wearing slip-on shoes and they both blew off my feet!"
Dress in layers with long sleeves to protect your skin, as the weather can change quickly during a tornado. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that you can easily remove if you become too hot. Wear or pack a raincoat or poncho to protect yourself from the rain and wind.
"I will never go to bed without substantial clothes on again in severe weather. The humiliation of being found naked was just too much."
 
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3. Pack a Bag
Keep your most important documents and valuables in a waist pack or slim, crossbody backpack you can wear under your clothes. We recommend choosing a brightly colored bag in the event you become separated from it so it's easier to find. Top items you should consider adding to your bag:
- Valuables: Wallet, phone and charger, keys
- Important documents: Birth certificates, passports, driver's licenses
- Emergency and health items: Glasses (if you wear them), vital medicine, flashlight, LifeStraw water filter, eye drops, chapstick, antibacterial wipes
"In the future, I would pack eye drops and chapstick. I wanted both so badly after the tornado was over. And antibacterial wipes. I had baby wipes handy, but antibacterial wipes would have been preferred because I had glass in my hands, feet, and face and I didn't have access to running water until the next day."
  Carhartt Adjustable Waist Pack |
 
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  Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack |
4. Protect your Head
If you have access to protective headgear like a bike, ski, or skateboard helmet, consider wearing it for added protection. At the very least, wear a hat to protect your face from flying debris and rain.
"Ladies, keep your hair tied back or braided. I had mine down and it got completely tangled and some got ripped out of my head."
  Under Armour |
  Champion |
  The North Face |
5. Stow a Blanket
Keep a blanket in your safe place and put it over your head to keep dirt, debris, and glass out of your eyes and mouth. Ideally choose a thick blanket such as a moving blanket or quilt, but anything is better than nothing.
"Keep your eyes and mouth closed. It’s hard—you want to scream and look around but don’t. I peeked out of the covers and had a mouthful of dirt and glass."
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Remember, the most important thing is to stay safe during a tornado. If a tornado warning is issued, follow the guidance of local authorities and take shelter immediately.
