(Decommissioned) Tornado Safety – LR 701.33

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University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Policy Name: Tornado Safety
Policy Number: LR 701.33
Effective Date: April 3, 2008
Revised Dates: November 3, 2023
Most Recent Review Date: November 3, 2023

Policy

ATTENTION ALL STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK: CENTRAL ARKANSAS IS SUBJECT TO TORNADO GENERATING WEATHER CONDITIONS.

What to do in the event of a tornado:

If weather conditions become stormy or rough in appearance, tune in to local radio or area television broadcasts for possible advisories from the National Weather Service. Remain alert for a worsening sky and the approach of storms, especially from the area generally west and southwest of Little Rock. Preplan your refuge-this action is the key to your safety. A TORNADO WATCH indicates that conditions are right for spawning tornadoes. If a TORNADO WATCH is issued, designate an observer to monitor weather conditions. Individuals should observe the sky and listen for further advisories. Be sure that you and others in your area will be able to reach one of the following areas in seconds:

  • A basement area with no windows.
  • A bottom floor hallway.
  • An interior hallway or small interior room with no windows.

If time permits, DO NOT seek refuge in the following areas: gymnasiums, auditoriums, dining halls, workshops, laboratories, classrooms, exterior rooms with windows, elevators, stairwells, non-masonry buildings, barns, utility areas, mobile units and mobile vehicles. DO NOT SEEK REFUGE OUTSIDE. However, if there is no other choice, plan to lay flat in a ditch or culvert.

Take cover before it strikes. When a TORNADO WARNING is broadcast in the Little Rock area (city sirens sound), go immediately to your refuge area. A TORNADO WARNING signifies that a tornado has been sighted in the area or that atmospheric rotation has been identified by DOPPLER Radar:

  • Upon observing dark rolling clouds, unusual lightning, hail, driving rain, sudden
    increase in wind, or possibly funnel clouds, go immediately to your refuge area.
  • Upon hearing a buzzing, or roaring sound, proceed quickly to your refuge area. Stay off of elevators. Do not use stairwells when the storm is striking.
  • When inside your refuge, sit on the floor. If a tornado strikes, place your head between your knees and cover the back of your head with your hands for protection.
  • Leave your refuge with caution. Multiple tornadoes can occur in one storm.

Source: Environmental Health and Safety
Status: Decommissioned
Approved By: Environmental Health and Safety Committee, April 3, 2008
Originator:
Custodian: EHS Committee