Tornado Tips from Trenton Fire Department, FEMA

Recent severe weather prompted Marshall Jeff Evans, with the help of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to give residents some insight into what to do during a tornado warning.

The weather has been destructive throughout southeastern Michigan this week and the National Weather Service is calling for more severe weather Thursday and Friday.

So far, Trenton has been relativity unscathed, but Evans said residents should know how to protect themselves if they encounter a tornado.

Evans said one of the most important things a resident can know is the difference between a tornado "watch" and a tornado "warning." The same idea applies to thunderstorms, as well.

A "watch" is when weather conditions are right for a tornado and a "warning" is when a tornado has affected a given area.

"Keep an eye on the weather, if things look like they're getting bad, check the weather channel or local news," Evans said. "Phone apps (applications) are available to instantly warn you of bad weather."

Evans told residents to get inside if bad weather hits, stay away from windows, seek the lowest part of your home and have some provisions such as water, personal items, medications, a flashlight and a portable radio.

A resident under a tornado warning should seek shelter immediately, according to FEMA.

Here are some actions to take if you are in a given circumstance. Information was provided by FEMA:

If you are in:

Then:

A structure (e.g. residence, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building)

Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. An interior bathroom or closet will do also. Do not open windows.

A vehicle, trailer or mobile home

Get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.

The outside with no shelter

Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.

Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.

Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.