A tornado is a narrow, violently rotating column of air that extends from the base of a thunderstorm to the ground

Tornados typically strike between March and August.

They appear transparent until they pick up dust and debris.

Warning signs are:

Dark or greenish sky.

Large hail or large, dark, low lying cloud.

Loud roar, similar to a freight train.

Know what to do before, during and after a tornado. Select an option below.

Before

• Put together an Emergency Supply Kit.
• Turn on your TV, radio, smart phone, laptop, tablet, etc. for emergency information or instructions.
• Choose a location where family members will meet if separated during the tornado.
• Appoint an out-of-town relative to be your "family contact". After a tornado, anyone not at home should contact this person.
• Keep trees trimmed to prevent them from coming in contact with your roof.
• Keep valuable papers and other important items in secure places.
• Remove animals from harm's way and into shelter.
• Fuel your car in case you need to leave your home.
• Obtain items such as plywood that you'll need to secure your home.
• Close all doors and secure all windows.
• Any object that could become flying debris should be moved from your yard and secured in your garage or home.
• Turn off and unplug all utilities, appliances, and electronics.
  
  

During

• If at home, stay inside and away from windows and glass doors.
• Identify the safest rooms in your house and wait out the storm there. The safest rooms would include the basement or any room with the fewest number of windows.
• Lean mattresses over the windows in the room you are taking shelter in. The mattress will protect you and your family from broken glass or flying debris.
• Do not go outside even if the weather appears to have calmed. To ensure the storm has passed, turn on your TV, radio, smart phone, laptop, tablet, etc. or contact the local authorities.
  

If you're in your CAR when a tornado occurs

• Get out immediately and try to find shelter in a building. If you can't find shelter, lie face down and in a low lying area away from vehicles. Use your hands to protect the back of your head and neck.

If you're OUTSIDE when a tornado occurs

• Do not get under an overpass or bridge. Lie face down in a low lying area away from vehicles. Use your hands to protect the back of your head and neck.
  

After

• Avoid driving as the roads may be blocked and power lines may be down.
• Before entering your home, check for any structural damage.
• Upon entering your home, look for hazards such as loose wires, damaged gas lines and submerged electrical appliances.
• Check your home for damage. If need be, consider calling a contractor to inspect your home, as well as other professionals, to inspect gas lines, remove uprooted trees or check the plumbing.
• Protect your property from further damage by using plywood, tarps or other materials to cover broken windows or holes in roofs.
• Make a list of your damaged property and do not dispose of it. Do not throw anything away as your insurance adjustor needs to inspect damaged items.
• Save receipts for any money you spend related to the loss. Your insurance company may need these to settle your claim.
• It's important to contact your NYCM Insurance Agent right away to report any damages to your property. You can also contact us directly at 800-234-6926. Customer Service is available 24/7/365.