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TORNADO/SEVERE WEATHER
THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES SHOULD BE ADHERED TO WHEN THE NATIONAL
WEATHER SERVICE ISSUES A “TORNADO WARNING” ACTIVATING THE COUNTY
SIREN SYSTEM.
At this time, when the NWS issues a TORNADO WARNNG, it is done so for entire
counties in Alabama. While the potential tornado may be across the county from
BSC, the campus will initiate the tornado plan immediately.
Helpful items to take to your safe area would be a radio (battery powered
preferably), and a flashlight if available.
The EMA activates the county siren system for TORNADO WARNINGS only.
Additional soundings indicate that the warning has been extended, and not that
the threat is over. There is no siren activated to indicate the termination of a
warning. Thus, you should stay in your safe area until notified by the Campus
Police or by the local media.
REMEMBER
If indoors, in class, residence halls, or elsewhere on campus, report to the pre-
designated tornado “safe area” in your building. If that location is unknown seek
refuge in a doorway, interior hallway, under a desk or table, on the lowest floor
of the building. Stay away from windows and exterior doors. See building safe
locations on page 30.
If outdoors and unable to get to shelter, seek a ditch or depression in the ground
and lie flat on the ground. CAUTION: Avoid power or utility poles as they may be
energized.
If in an automobile, stop as quickly as safety permits. Exit the vehicle and seek
shelter in a ditch or depression in the ground and lie flat.
CAUTION: Avoid power or utility poles as they may be energized.
Remain in the safe area until the warning has passed or when conditions permit.