Tornado Shelters

The Baldwin County Commission owns or has access to community safe rooms for Tropical Weather events, but these are not designed for the quick access needed in severe storm and tornadoes. Any tornado shelters in Baldwin County are privately owned. The county shelters of last resort/safe rooms (listed on our website: https://baldwincountyal.gov/departments/emergency-management-agency/shelters/all-shelters-photos) are opened as needed during a hurricane.

Those staying in condos, RV sites, and mobile home communities should speak to managers/owners at the facility about where they recommend sheltering on or off site. We also recommend seeking shelter with friends or family if you have loved ones nearby, especially for those who live in single family mobile or manufactured homes. The primary consideration should be individual and family plan identification of a safer place for severe weather and tornadoes.

Sheltering in Place, or Safer Places

Whether you are at home, work or anywhere else you frequent regularly, there may be situations when it's best to stay where you are and avoid any uncertainty outside. Here are some indicators and steps to take if the situation arises:

• Use common sense and available information to assess the situation and determine if there is immediate danger.
• Watch TV and listen to the radio often for official news and instructions as they become available.
• Bring your family and pets inside.
• Lock doors, close windows, air vents and fireplace dampers.
• Turn off fans, air conditioning and forced air heating systems.
• Take your emergency supply kit unless you have reason to believe it has been contaminated.
• Go into an interior room on the lowest floor with the fewest windows.
• Protect yourself by covering your head or neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around or on top of you.

If you’re in your car, do not try to outrun a tornado. Additionally:

• Do not go under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
• Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.

Even after a tornado passes, it’s important to stay alert and use caution when clearing debris.

• Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
• Wear appropriate gear during clean-up, such as thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves, and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
• Do not enter damaged buildings until you are told they are safe.