Preparing for Spring Storms
- Keep a battery-operated weather radio (and fresh batteries) on hand in case an approaching storm knocks the power out. Listening to an NOAA weather report can mean the difference between life and death when dangerous weather is nearby.
- Have a fully stocked first aid kit in a convenient-to-locate place in your home. Your kit should contain antibacterial ointment, several types of bandages, instructions on how to perform basic first aid care, alcohol, sterile gauze pads, tweezers, scissors, pain relievers and hot/cold compresses.
- Enter emergency contact information into your cell phone. Include local EMS, the fire department, hospitals, police, and family members who would need to be notified in case of a medical emergency.
- Prepare an emergency kit with everything you might need in case of an overnight evacuation. Include blankets or sleeping bags for your family, enough water for three days or more, canned foods that don't need to be cooked prior to eating, a three-day supply of medications, personal hygiene products and basic (non-electrical) forms of entertainment for the kids.
- Have a plan for emergency weather events. Be sure everyone in your family knows the plan. Discuss where to meet in the event anyone becomes separated from the rest of the family during a storm, where to go in case of a tornado (center-most room on the lowest level of your home, in a bathtub with a mattress covering you), a severe thunderstorm (away from windows or plumbing, and electrical outlets), or a flood (highest level possible).
