As Hurricane Sally bears down on the Southeast and much of our state faces inclement weather, it is a good time to ensure you and your family are informed and prepared in the event of a storm. September and October are the busiest times for hurricanes each year.
Please take a moment and review the Storm Checklist below for important tips.
Preparing for a Storm:
Our state is susceptible to thunderstorms as well as tornadoes and hurricanes. And, every thunderstorm contains lightning, which kills more people each year than other storms. Lightning is the third largest cause of storm deaths in America. Thunderstorms can also cause high winds and heavy rains. The following tips will assist you and your family in staying safe during a thunderstorm:
Tornadoes are one of the deadliest natural disasters that occur in our state. Their winds alone can destroy homes, uproot trees, and down powerlines. It’s important to understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. Consider the following tips to stay safe during a tornado:
Please take a moment and review the Storm Checklist below for important tips.
Preparing for a Storm:
- Stay informed. There are several apps for your smart phone that will keep you up to date with weather alerts, but a battery-operated radio is ideal in case of power outages.
- Secure outside items that could be blown around by wind. Items such as grills, patio furniture, trash cans, trampolines, and toys should be tied down or brought indoors.
- Turn your refrigerator and freezers to the lowest setting. This should help keep food colder and help it to last longer in case of a power outage.
- Unplug expensive electronics to guard against lightning and power surge.
- Review your safety plans. Make sure your family knows where you will meet and how you will stay safe during the storm.
Our state is susceptible to thunderstorms as well as tornadoes and hurricanes. And, every thunderstorm contains lightning, which kills more people each year than other storms. Lightning is the third largest cause of storm deaths in America. Thunderstorms can also cause high winds and heavy rains. The following tips will assist you and your family in staying safe during a thunderstorm:
- Avoid areas that have standing water
- Avoid windows and electrical equipment
- Be on the lookout for flash flooding while traveling
- Bring pets inside
- Pay attention to downed power lines and falling trees
- Secure loose objects
- Stay away from bodies of water
- Stay off the roads
Tornadoes are one of the deadliest natural disasters that occur in our state. Their winds alone can destroy homes, uproot trees, and down powerlines. It’s important to understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. Consider the following tips to stay safe during a tornado:
- Avoid windows and doors
- Keep a battery-operated radio nearby for updates
- Seek shelter in a basement
- Stay away from overpasses
- Stay off the roads
- Remember that a “watch” means a tornado is possible and a “warning means a tornado has been spotted and shelter should be taken immediately.