Information Sourced from www.ready.gov.
April is Severe Weather Safety Month
As winter recedes and summer approaches, it’s a perfect time for a refresher on severe weather preparedness and safety. Below are some helpful tips related to a variety of severe weather types. Regardless of the actual event, being ready in advance is key. One of the best ways to prepare for any emergency is for household members to work together and create a family emergency plan and emergency kit. Ready.gov has a starter list of items to include in emergency kits.
Thunderstorms & Lighting
Thunderstorms are common, especially during summer months, but it’s important to avoid becoming complacent, as thunderstorms and lighting can be dangerous both to life and property. Some actions that can be taken before a storm arrives include: cutting down or trim trees that may be in danger of falling on your home and buying surge protectors, lightning rods or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances and electronic devices. When the storm arrives, seek shelter. Remember - when thunder roars, go indoors! Move from outdoors into a building or car with a roof. Pay attention to alerts and warnings, avoid using electronic devices connected to an electrical outlet, and avoid running water. Never approach downed power lines, report them to your utility provider.
Just one foot of moving water can carry a vehicle away. It only takes half that to knock a person down!
Flooding
Floods are the most common disaster in the United States, but many homeowner insurance policies do not cover floods. One of the best steps to prepare for floods is to consider purchasing a flood insurance policy. Remember, such policies can take a while to become effective, so this step should be taken well before a flood is expected. Many different causes can lead to flooding, including thunderstorms. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flooded roadways. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Furthermore, flood waters can be contaminated and dangerous. If trapped at home during a flood, move to the highest level which still has a way out. Do not move into an enclosed attic. Only get on the roof if absolutely necessary; once there, signal for help. Tornadoes Tornadoes can occur anytime, anywhere. They are typically associated with severe thunderstorms, and many of the tornado safety tips overlap with thunderstorms. If under a tornado watch or warning, seek shelter immediately. This should be a basement, safe room, storm cellar, or small interior room on the building’s lowest level. Watch out for flying debris and use your arms to protect your head and neck. There are no safe options in a vehicle, only less dangerous ones. If caught on the road or outside, do not seek shelter under a bridge or overpass. Instead, lie flat in the lowest area and cover your head with your hands. If stuck in a vehicle, keep the seat belt buckled, put your head down below the windows and cover your head with blankets or coats.
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OCI April 2025
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