Spring weather can be unpredictable. When severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and death increases, so planning makes sense. Prepare for storms, floods, and tornadoes as if you know in advance they are coming, because in the spring, they very likely will.
Thunderstorms cause some of the most severe spring weather. They can bring lightning, tornadoes, and flooding. Whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can occur.
Often, by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little, if any, time to prepare for it.
Advance planning requires specific safety precautions. You can follow many of the same steps that you would for all extreme weather events. Keep an emergency kit on hand. Some items to include are:
- A battery-operated flashlight, a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio, and extra batteries for both
- An emergency evacuation or shelter plan — including a map of your home and, for every type of severe weather emergency, routes to safety from each room
- A list of important personal information, including:
- Telephone numbers of neighbors, family, and friends
- Insurance
- Property information
- Telephone numbers of utility companies and medical information
- First aid kit
- A 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
- Personal hygiene items
- Blankets or sleeping bags
Practice your emergency plan for every type of severe weather. Show family members where the emergency supplies are stored, and make sure they know how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity in your home.
Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little, if any, time to prepare for it. So, why not take the surprise factor out of severe weather and prepare yourself, your family, your business and your home?
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