With the tornado season under way, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency is reminding Georgians that preparedness, as well as awareness of basic safety precautions, can save lives.

The number of tornado-related deaths in Georgia has fluctuated widely over the years. The worst year in recent history was 1994, with 20 deaths. There were no deaths reported in 1995, while 1996 and 1997 saw one fatality each. Last year 19 people died as a result of tornadoes.

The level of tornado activity is down somewhat this year from last year, but the threat remains.

“Tornadoes pose an extremely serious threat,” said GEMA director Gary W. McConnell. “The risk of death and serious injury from tornadoes can be reduced drastically, however, if people are prepared and are aware of some basic safety guidelines.”

McConnell said a key element of tornado safety is awareness. Georgians should pay close attention to the weather advisories they see on TV and radio, he said. The reliability of such warnings has increased with the implementation of the new Emergency Alert System, which replaced the Emergency Broadcast System last year, he added.

Another valuable source of severe weather information in a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather Radio, which automatically activates when a severe weather advisory is issued. Additional NOAA weather radio transmitters are being installed throughout the state, based on recommendations made last year by the Governor's Task Force on Warnings and Communication. The additional transmitters will give the state virtually 100 percent coverage.

Planning and preparedness also are critical to minimizing the risk of death or serious injury from tornadoes. McConnell said families should set aside a time to discuss, plan, prepare and rehearse what they would do in the face of disaster such as a tornado. The following supplies should also be kept on hand as part of a disaster kit: a flashlight and portable battery-operated radio, with extra batteries; a first aid kit; a three-day supply of nonperishable food and bottled water; a manual can opener; and prescription drugs, other essential medicines and personal hygiene items.

Although most tornadoes occur during March, April and May, they have been reported in Georgia in all 12 months.

The most violent tornadoes are capable of tremendous destruction, with wind speeds of 250 miles per hour or more. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles in length. People in mobile homes, vehicles or in open areas are particularly vulnerable.

Tornado safety tips

A tornado watch means a tornado is possible.

äA tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.

Tornadoes often develop in areas where a severe thunderstorm watch or warning is in effect.

When a tornado warning is issued, move immediately to a safe area, such as a basement. If underground shelter is not available, go to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows, walls and the corners of rooms.

In public buildings, go to a designated shelter. If one is not available, go to an interior area or hallway. Avoid areas with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums or large hallways.

Do not try to outrun a tornado or remain in a vehicle during a tornado. If outside or in a vehicle when a tornado approaches, lie flat in a ditch, ravine or low area until the storm passes, then move to a safe location to avoid possible flash flooding.

Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to tornadoes. They should be abandoned when a tornado is approaching (NOTE: At least 20 of Georgia's tornado-related deaths since 1994 have occurred in mobile homes).

If you are indoors, stay away from electrical appliances while the storm is overhead. If you are forced to take shelter outside, stay away from objects that conduct electricity such as tall trees or power poles.

Do not open windows or doors in your home. Although this was once thought by some to minimize damage it is not recommended. It can actually increase damage and waste valuable time in taking shelter.

After a tornado, stay out of damaged buildings until you are assured they are structurally sound.

Be alert for downed power lines or gas leaks.