In Indiana, we’re no strangers to thunderstorms and heavy rain that can seemingly come out of nowhere. Severe weather can happen when you’re least expecting it, and though it might be scary to talk about with your family, it pays to be prepared. We want to keep you and your family safe, so we put together a list of things to do to prepare before inclement weather hits.
Coming up with a severe weather emergency plan will help keep everyone calm in the event of an emergency, and most importantly, help keep them safe. It’s also important to know what you should do in different weather scenarios, according to redcross.org:
If there’s a…
Tornado: Go into the lowest level of the building and stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. If you are outside with no car or nearby shelter, lie down in a ditch and protect your head.
Severe thunderstorm: Go indoors if you see lightning or hear thunder, and don’t use items that plug into electrical outlets. Avoid using running water, as faucets can conduct electricity.
Earthquake: Practice the ‘Drop, Cover and Hold On’ method, and learn to recognize safe places in each room at home and at school.
Flooding: Don’t go into flooded areas. Just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and standing floodwater could be contaminated or contain sharp objects.
No matter what kind of weather emergency is happening, your family will be safer if you’ve already established a plan ahead of time. Here are some tips that will help keep you and the ones you love out of harm’s way.
Don’t forget to …
Make an emergency supply kit
Having a well-stocked emergency supply kit (filtered water, food, a radio, matches, etc.) on hand that is kept where your family can quickly find it
Decide on a meeting location
If you are in different locations or get separated during an emergency, it helps to have a meeting place already established. You should also determine your severe weather safe spot like a basement, interior closet or bathroom.
Pick an emergency contact
Identify an emergency contact in and out of town (out of town communication is sometimes easier during an emergency due to cellular networks) so you can call for help or let the contact know you’re safe.
Expand the plan
Once your family emergency plan is established, consider the other places your family spends time, like work, school or daycare, and find out if they have an emergency plan.
Creating your family’s severe weather emergency plan takes just a few minutes. It’s well worth the effort because having an emergency plan in place means there is a better chance of everyone moving quickly. Knowing exactly what to do and where to go could save lives before, during and after severe weather or other disasters.
Sources:
https://www.ready.gov/severe-weather
http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/make-a-plan