Spring is the season for severe weather including severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. This can mean damaging winds and hail, floods, flash floods, lighting, tornadoes, and the nervousness that can accompany powerful storms. It is important to be prepared in order to keep your home and family safe. Knowing what to do, where to go, and how to protect yourself and your family during bad weather, will help you remain calmer during a storm. Staying calm is the best possible advice for dealing with bad weather.
Here are some other tips:
1. Pay close attention to the weather and especially storm watches and warnings. Follow any instructions given during weather advisories. Take cover immediately if advised to do so.
2. Move to a safe location in your home. An interior room (more interior walls than exterior) on the lowest floor of the home is a good option if you don’t have a basement. Bring pillows, a mattress, a sleeping bag, or something to cover yourself and loved ones with for protection against debris.
3. Stay away from doors and windows. Cover windows if possible. Even closing the curtains will help somewhat, should the glass shatter. If possible go beneath a large table or other stable piece of furniture.
4. Take down chandeliers and remove other large art pieces or accessories in the room you’re in, where feasible. Stay clear of large items that cannot be temporarily removed that may fall on you.
5. Do not take a shower or a bath during a storm. Avoid using water, electricity, or a landline phone. Do not touch anything that conducts electricity (water, metal, wires) during heavy lightning.
6. Bring a radio, batteries, and a flashlight with you to the safe area.
*Be sure to check out the Preparedness Blog for more information on keeping your family safe.