In the event of a tornado, what is the first step if evacuation is ordered?

In the event of a tornado, if evacuation is ordered, moving students to a nearby ditch or culvert is considered the safest option. This approach is recommended because ditches and culverts provide lower ground that can help protect individuals from the tornado's high winds and flying debris.

During a tornado, staying in a vehicle can be extremely dangerous due to the risk posed by strong winds, which can overturn vehicles, and debris that can cause serious injury. Ditches and culverts provide a low-profile area that can shield individuals from the severe weather conditions associated with a tornado.

While seeking shelter in a building might seem like a viable option, it may not always be feasible or safe. The priority in such a scenario is to quickly lead students to an area that minimizes exposure to the dangers of the tornado. Contacting emergency services, while important during emergencies, is generally not the immediate priority after an evacuation order is given, as the focus should be on getting students to safety as quickly as possible.