Severe weather comes in many forms in all seasons, and as we see time and again, it can have catastrophic consequences. Depending on where you live, you might have to deal with tornadoes, hurricanes, hail, lightning, flooding, blizzards or some combination. You can’t prevent severe weather, but you can take measures to stay safe when it happens. Here are some important tips.
The first thing you should do is keep yourself informed about the potential of severe weather so you aren’t caught off guard. Learn about any warning signals that may be used in your area and if you have a smart phone, download apps that provide forecast information. When you know what’s coming you can plan accordingly.
Create a Plan
It’s important to create a plan and get everyone in your family on board. Discuss the plan and come up with decide on one place for everyone to meet that’s outside the house and one that’s in a different neighbourhood if you can’t return to the house. Your specific plan will vary depending on the type of weather hazards in your area, but make sure the entire household knows what to do, because you might not have a lot of time to refresh once the bad weather starts.
Create a Kit
A disaster supply kit will help you if there is an emergency evacuation order or a great deal of damage to your property. Use small containers like backpacks or duffle bags and pack them with water, three or four days worth of non-perishable food, basic kitchen accessories, flashlights, extra batteries, blankets or a sleeping bag, medications and personal hygiene products.
You’ll also need waterproof matches, ID and personal information, cash and cards and paper and writing utensils. Keep in mind that these are all extras that you have to grab and take, so it makes sense to have them packed up and ready to go, especially during storm season.
You don’t have to make severe preparation an obsession, but it is a good idea to practice your plan to ensure everyone knows their role. Practice a test scenario once a month or so, and ask questions during the month to keep everyone on their toes. It’s also important to keep smoke detectors and fire extinguishers tested and ready for use.
Here are some important tips for staying safe once a bad storm is upon you:
- Stay away from windows at all costs.
- Cover yourself with a mattress or get under a heavy table, if the storm may damage the house.
- Get in the basement, if you have one.
- Get to the lowest possible point, if you don’t have a basement.
- If you’re in a mobile home, get out.
- Follow the proper drills and instructions at school.
- In a tornado, get out of your vehicle and look for shelter in a sturdy building and if you’re out in the open lie flat on the ground face down and cover your head with your arms.