Tornado Watch - Issued by the National Weather Service when severe weather conditions and possible tornadoes could occur in the area.

• When a tornado watch is in effect, the school will continue normal activities but move recess and physical education activities indoors.
• Be prepared to respond if weather conditions worsen.
• The school will not be dismissed early and dismissal will be at the regualr time even if the watch is still in effect.

Tornado Warning - Issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.

• Immediately move to your designated shelter areas. Teachers will remain with students.
• Close blinds or drapes, and stay away from windows, mirrors, glass and unsecured objects such as filing cabinets.
• Have students sit on the floor along interior walls, as far away from any windows as possible. Calmly demonstrate the "Duck and Cover" procedure to students, especially those of elementary school age. Have students ready to assume the "Duck and Cover" position following your command.
• If high winds or tornadoes strike the building, shout "Duck and Cover" and assume the position yourself. Remain in the "Duck and Cover" position until you hear the "All Clear" announced.
• Assess the situation with respect to injuries or building damage and, if conditions are safe, send a staff member or student to the building administrator's office to report the situation. If trained to do so, render first aid to those who are injured until medical help arrives.
• Take attendance and account for all children in your class.
• Unless there is an imminent hazard in the area, keep children from leaving the area until emergency crews arrive. If the building is significantly damaged, several hazards such as exposed electrical wires, sharp or falling debris, etc., may be present.
• Do not dismiss students unless directed by the building administrator
• No student will be permitted to leave the designated shelter area unless released to his/her parent or guardian.

Duck and Cover: Occupants should sit or kneel, place their head down and protect their head and torso with their hands and arms.

Areas to avoid:

• Spaces that are opposite doorways or openings into rooms that have windows in the exterior walls, particularily facing south and west.
• Corridor intersections (stay at least 10 feet away).
• Skylights, atriums, and areas with large roof spans.