Be Prepared For Changing Weather -
As we transition into new seasons, it is important to stay prepared for seasonal weather changes. This can bring weather hazards such as thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, flooding, high winds, hail, and even tornadoes.
Please take a moment to review these weather safety reminders:
Preparation is Key:
- Keep an emergency kit in both your home and in your car (battery-powered weather radio, flashlight, blankets, cell phone, batteries, etc.)
- Sign up for local emergency alert notifications. (Most municipalities provide alert notifications which will inform residents in times of crisis.)
- Monitor your local radio or television for current weather conditions and possible severe weather.
In the event of severe weather, know the difference between storm watches and warnings.
- Watch - A weather watch means there is the potential, or conditions exist for a dangerous weather event.
- Warning - A weather warning means that a dangerous weather event is imminent. Immediate action must be taken to protect life and property.
- Advisory - A weather advisory means weather conditions that are less serious than a warning are possible. These events may cause a significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to a situation that may be threatening to life and property.
When Severe Weather Strikes
Indoors:
- Use flashlights if the power goes out. Have a battery-powered NOAA weather radio on hand to monitor weather reports.
- Discontinue use of landline phones and electrical equipment.
- Avoid taking a shower or bath. If lightning strikes your house, it may send a current of electricity across metal plumbing throughout the house.
Outdoors:
- Stay low. If possible, find shelter in a building.
- Keep away from trees, tall objects, metal objects, and water.
- Boaters and swimmers should get to land as soon as possible.
While Driving:
- Reduce your speed.
- Pull off to the shoulder of the road. Be sure you’re away from tall objects, such as trees, which could fall due to wind or lightning. Do not clog highway underpasses.
- Turn on your emergency flashers and remain in the car until the storm passes.
- Do not touch any metal objects in the car.
- Never attempt to drive on roads covered by water.
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.
- Do not exit your car in a hailstorm.
For more informational charts, see our SOCIAL TAB above
-Spring Weather Safety
