With parts of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska under a tornado watch until 7 P.M. this evening, it’s important to know what to do in a severe weather situation. Brush up on what to do during a tornado watch here: 

What is it? A tornado watch is the time to be prepared for a tornado. The National Weather Service says tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area.

What do I do? You should review and discuss your emergency plans and check supplies and your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching.

All campus residences have descriptions within the room or apartment for what to do in the event of severe weather. Find these instructions and review them.

What if it becomes a warning? Warnings are usually indicated with sirens in the affected area, but you may not hear them inside a building. Turn on the TV or radio to a local station or access a weather app.

“The tornado sirens are only meant to hear outside,” Geoff Huff of the Ames Police Department said. “People should utilize a smart phone app or weather radio to ensure they get timely notifications.”

Home: In the event of a tornado warning, you should go to your basement, safe room or an interior room away from windows.

Not home: If you are in a business or school building, stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums or auditoriums. Go to the lowest level possible.

In a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best course of action is to drive to the closest shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine.

All tips are from the National Weather Service.

In times of severe weather, reach out to your local law enforcement – either Iowa State Police (515-294-4428) or the Ames Police Department (515-239-5133) – for any concerns. In the event of severe injury or emergency, contact 911 first.

“If you see something, say something!” Anthony Greiter of the Iowa State Police said. “Anyone who sees damage, stranded vehicles, or persons in need of assistance during or as a result of severe weather are encouraged to call us as soon as it’s safe to do so.”