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Common sense
before the storm
Forecast prompts precautionary measures
 JULY 26, 2012 - Summer thunderstorms can quickly wreak
havoc on a community. When severe weather is forecast for our
area, it is important for families to have a plan prepared in
the event of destructive storms.
Planning and
practice lessens the stress and fear often associated with
severe storms and the unknown. Be aware of dangerous lightning,
hail, damaging winds, and possible flash flooding. Take all
necessary precautions.
To be prepared for
severe weather, know your community or have a map to track the
path of storms. Listen closely to the radio or TV for up-to-date
information. A weather-band radio with an alert alarm will
notify you if the National Weather Service issues a warning.
Have emergency
numbers posted near the phone, or programmed in family cell
phones.
Check your home for
potential hazards (anything that can move, fall, break or catch
fire) and secure them. Check your yard for lawn furniture, tools
or children's toys that may fly around in high winds and cause
damage or injury.
Avoid using the
telephone, emergency only, and any electrical appliances. Avoid
taking a bath or shower, or running water for any purpose,
during severe thunderstorms! Telephone lines and metal pipes can
conduct electricity. Unplug appliances.
Move your car
inside a garage if possible. Damaging hail often accompanies
severe thunderstorms.
Know where the main
utility shut-offs in your home are located.
Assemble a family
disaster supply kit, including first aid materials. Family
members, especially parents, should be trained in first aid and
CPR.
Pick two alternate
family reunion spots to meet: a nearby spot outside your home
for an emergency such as fire, and a place away from your
neighborhood in case your family members cannot return home.
Choose an
out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for
everyone to call if the family is separated. Discuss what you
would do if advised to evacuate.
Some terms defined
SEVERE
THUNDERSTORM WATCH
A severe thunderstorm watch means that conditions are favorable
for a severe thunderstorm to develop. Take necessary
precautions. Be aware of any rapid changes, in weather
conditions. Monitor local radio, television networks, or your
weather alert radio for further potential developments.
TORNADO WATCH
A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for a
tornado to develop. "Watch the skies!" Take necessary
precautions; be aware of rapid changes in weather conditions.
Monitor local radio, television networks, or your weather alert
radio.
SEVERE
THUNDERSTORM WARNING AND TORNADO WATCH
These two conditions indicate that dangerous weather is very
likely. TAKE COVER IMMEDIATELY and monitor your local radio and
television networks for further details. Tornadoes can suddenly
develop from severe thunderstorms.
TORNADO WARNING
A tornado warning means that dangerous weather is already
occurring. The condition is eminent. A tornado has been sighted
or indicated by radar. TAKE COVER IMMEDIATELY!
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