Two tornado drills Thursday, April 7, will give people, whether they are at home or work, a chance to think about where they'd go, what they'd do and how they'd communicate with loved ones and emergency officials in the event of severe weather.

The drills, at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. provide a chance to practice tornado sheltering plans.

Update and distribute emergency contact information to employees. Create and distribute a list of important emergency numbers. Designate critical function or emergency personnel.

Organize an emergency preparedness procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. Ensure everyone understands their roles in a “what if?” scenario.

The tornado drill at 1:45 p.m. is a perfect opportunity for schools to conduct preparedness training, exercises and education. A carefully developed tornado drill should keep students and staff in good practice and work out any problems before a real event occurs.

Simulated tornado watches and warnings will be issued to test the statewide warning and communications systems. The schedule is as follows:

1 p.m. All National Weather Service offices that serve Minnesota will issue a simulated tornado using the public information statement product. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radios will activate with the weekly test code.

1:45 p.m. The NWS will issue a simulated tornado warning for Minnesota using the public information statement product. Most cities and counties will activate outdoor warning sirens.

2 p.m. The NWS will issue an "End of Test" message using the public information statement product.

6:45 p.m. NWS offices will issue another simulated tornado warning.

7 p.m. The NWS will issue an "End of Test" message using the public information statement product.