Preparing for Severe Weather
MISSION, KS--(Marketwire - May 23, 2011) - (Family Features) Severe weather can strike in any state, at any time. According to the National Weather Service, there are an average of 10,000 thunderstorms, 5,000 floods, 1,000 tornadoes and two hurricanes that make landfall each year.
No matter where you live, you need to be prepared to deal with severe weather. If you have children, get them involved in planning and preparing -- it will help them learn what to do to stay safe. They can help pack emergency kits and make lists of other items such as books and games to keep them occupied, blankets and pillows, and pet care items.
These tips and checklists from Energizer will help you get ready before severe weather strikes.
Severe weather storm-ready checklist
Emergency preparedness kit
The American Red Cross recommends that you have an easily accessible Emergency Kit ready for severe weather outbreaks and power outages. It should have supplies for at least three days.
What to do during a power outage
Power outages can range from a minor nuisance of an hour or two, to a prolonged outage of several days. Either way, keep these safety tips in mind:
For more information, visit www.energizer.com.
Let them know you're safe
If your community experiences a weather-related disaster, the American Red Cross can help you let friends and family know you are safe. Register on the Safe and Well website (safeandwell.communityos.org), or by calling 1-866-GET-INFO.
Know the difference between watch and warning
Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Severe weather has been reported or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate impending danger to life and property.
Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area.
Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or is indicated by weather radar. Find shelter immediately.
Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within a specific coastal area. Generally issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds.
Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected within a specific coastal area. Generally issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds.
Contact Information:
Wendy MacDonald
wmacdonald@familyfeatures.com
1-888-824-3337 ext. 235
http://editors.familyfeatures.com