Trucker Safety During Tornadoes
By James Davis
Tornadoes can be incredibly dangerous, and it's important for truckers to know how to stay safe if they encounter one while on the road. Here are some tips for what a trucker can do in a tornado:
Monitor the weather:
One of the most important things a trucker can do is keep an eye on the weather. Make sure to check the forecast before hitting the road, and keep an eye out for any signs of severe weather while driving.
Find a safe place to park:
If you do encounter a tornado while on the road, try to find a safe place to park your truck. Look for a sturdy building, like a truck stop or gas station, where you can take shelter. If there's no shelter available, try to find a low-lying area away from trees and power lines.
Stay in your truck:
If you can't find shelter, the safest place for a trucker to be during a tornado is inside their truck. Make sure to put on your seatbelt and turn on your hazard lights. If you have time, try to park your truck so that it's facing into the wind to reduce the risk of it tipping over.
Cover yourself:
If you're unable to find shelter and need to stay in your truck, cover yourself with a blanket or coat to protect yourself from flying debris.
Don't try to outrun the tornado:
It's never a good idea to try to outrun a tornado in your truck. Tornadoes can move quickly and can change direction suddenly, so it's best to find a safe place to park and wait for the storm to pass.