We know firsthand how scary a tornado, or twister, can be. We were on the Kansas prairie when the sky turned a strange greenish color. Then a funnel-shaped cloud appeared on the horizon. Tornadoes can flatten whole towns and toss cars around like toys, but there are ways to prepare for and survive these terrible storms.

1. Twisters form out of thunderstorms. It’s a good idea to check for tornado warnings whenever there’s a big thunderstorm.

2. Check to see if the clouds are low and moving quickly. Also look at the color of the sky. A sickly green or yellow sky is a danger sign.

3. Go down to the basement. If you don’t have a basement, head for the first floor and get into a closet or a bathroom without a window. If you’re in a bathroom, get into the tub.

4. If you can’t do that, get under a sturdy table or desk. Pull a mattress over your body or pile up pillows to protect yourself from flying glass or debris.

5. If you’re outside with no shelter, lie down in a ditch and cover your head and neck with your arms.

6. If you’re in a car, get out and head for the nearest ditch. Twisters can toss cars into the air.

Remember, you can’t run faster than a tornado. People say that their roar sounds like a huge jet engine. It’s a sound no one ever forgets!