As the summer winds down, so too do the chances for wildweather, but for the 17 million residents of Tornado Alley,tornadoes are still very much a reality.

According to the NOAA, May is actually the most active month ofthe year for tornadoes with an average of 276 across the U.S. BySeptember, the number drops to an average of 74. According toNOAA's Storm Prediction Center, there were only 85 preliminaryreports of tornadoes in July as compared tothe 1991-2010 average of 134 for the same month. The NOAA saysthere have been a total of 309 tornadoes across the countryincluding 130 in June and 113 in April, so 2014 is tracking to be amuch more quiet year. In 2013 there were 908 tornadoes, with 939 in2012, and a deadly 1691 in 2011. That was the year Joplin, Mo. washit by an EF5 tornado that killed approximately 160 people andcaused over $2 billion in insured losses.

Preparation ahead of time and knowing what to do in the event oftornado can help reduce the loss of life if one strikes.

Here are some safety tips courtesy of Rainbow International:

1. Tornadoes usually pass through an area fairly quickly, so thesafest place to be is in a basement, storm cellar or an interiorroom without windows.
2. Have an emergency kit with packaged food, bottled water,flashlights & batteries, medications, blankets, extra clothes,pet supplies and books or puzzles to keep young childrenentertained.
3. Have a place for family members to meet if separated by thestorm. Select a family member or friend in another state foreveryone to contact if separated.
4. Schedule tornado drills and know the emergency action plans forschool, work and other places frequented by the family.
5. If a tornado is in the area, listen to and heed any advisories.Warning signs can include a dark, greenish-colored clouds or cloudswith large hail, a funnel cloud, and a loud roar or rumble.

After the tornado passes, wait for emergency teams to arrive ifnecessary; avoid power lines and puddles with wires in them; watchfor broken glass, nails and other sharp objects; and never usematches or a lighter in case of leaking natural gas or fueltanks.