The National Weather Service in Jackson will conduct a statewide tornado drill at 9:15 a.m. today.

It would be a good idea for all of us to use the occasion to make certain we have personal plans in place for our family during the event of a tornado.

The Adams County Emergency Management Agency plans to participate in the statewide drill by activating the county’s emergency alert systems, including outside warning sirens and Code Red weather warning calls.

Tornadoes are the state’s No. 1 weather-related killer. It would be prudent for every member of your family to know what to do in the event of a tornado.

The Tornado Safety Storm Prediction Center advises every member of a family should know where to take shelter during a storm in a matter of seconds. In addition, families should have a pre-determined place to meet after a disaster.

Flying debris is the greatest hazard during a tornado, so the safe area in your house should have a supply of thick blankets and sleeping bags and the like to be used as protection.

Make sure each member of your family knows where to turn off the water, gas and electricity at the main valves and breakers.

Have a plan for how to take care of your pets during an emergency. Ample supplies of food, water and medications are also necessary to see every family member through a period of disaster.

Tornadoes are serious business. Preparation is often the key to survival.