Don't kid yourself into believing that tornadoes occur only during the summer.

The truth is that, in Illinois, most tornadoes occur during the months of April, May and June. Now is the time to insure that you and your family members fully understand the correct safety precautions.

Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning - What is the difference?
A tornado watch means that conditions are right for a tornado to occur. A warning means that a tornado has been detected. In Vernon Hills, the emergency warning sirens are activated in the event of a tornado warning. In addition, when the sirens are activated, the emergency cable television override system alerts cable television viewers in Vernon Hills, advising them to seek immediate shelter. Vernon Hills residents should also keep in mind that the Village DOES NOT give an "all clear" signal.

Upon hearing a warning siren or receiving the emergency cable television message, you should:

• Go at once to the basement or interior part of the building on the lowest level.
• Stay away from windows.
• Go to the center of the room.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table, and hold onto it.
• Use arms to protect head and neck.

If you are outdoors:

• If possible, get inside a building.
• If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building.
• Use arms to protect your head and neck.

If you are in your car when a tornado strikes:

• Never try to outrun a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car and toss it through the air.
• Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building.
• If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle.

Do not open a window.
Many people mistakenly believe they should open a window when a tornado is coming. They believe that since houses are airtight, the change in air pressure during a tornado could cause a home to explode. This is a myth. Actually, buildings are not airtight. They leak, equalizing air pressure naturally. Opening a window allows the strong winds to enter, cause damage and increase the possibility of injury.