Tips to keep you safe
Springtime has finally rolled around again and for many, the green grass and forecasts of a potential rain are a welcome site. Unfortunately, this time of year also brings with it the threat of severe weather.
The areas of NE Oklahoma, SW Missouri and NW Arkansas are for the most part, a hot bed of severe weather activity. Rain, hail, floods, high winds and tornadoes are all part of living in these areas.
It is always a good idea before the severe weather moves in to take time to go over emergency plans and check on emergency supplies. Things like batteries, flashlights, snacks and water are good to keep on hand in a to-go bag. Make sure you have alternative ways to charge cell phones and keep a battery-operated radio on hand.
If you have an emergency shelter such as a cellar, tornado safe, or partially buried shelter, check and clean the shelter to make sure there is no standing water or creepy crawlies. Check the door and door latches to make sure they are working properly. Have extra blankets, seating, and other essentials if you have to make an extended stay.
Remember the following additional tips to stay safe during sever weather:
Follow local forecasts any time severe weather is expected. Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts in case one fails or if severe weather hits overnight.
Create a family emergency plan to stay safe and remember to include all pets when building an emergency kit and stocking up on supplies.
A tornado watch means tornadoes are possible in the area. A tornado warning means seek shelter immediately because a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.
The safest shelter location for tornadoes is generally an interior room without windows on the lowest floor of a sturdy structure, preferably in the basement.
Immediately leave a mobile home to seek shelter in a nearby building and never seek shelter under an overpass-the wind tunnel effect and flying debris can be deadly.
If you hear thunder, it means lightening is close enough to strike you. Leave elevated areas and avoid isolated trees. Seek shelter immediately in an enclosed building or vehicle.
The safest place to be when there is high winds or hail is indoors. Avoid driving to prevent injuries or vehicle damage. Consider all downed power lines as live.
Never drive into standing water, even if it appears shallow. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause a car to lose control. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and sweep it away. Murky water can hide hazards including dangerous debris and road damage. Remember: TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN!
More information can be found at www.stormaware.mo.gov which includes detailed videos on how to shelter from tornadoes in specific locations, how to avoid flash flooding dangers and useful information on tornado sirens and weather alert radios.
Download your favorite local weather app onto your phone and follow alerts as prompted. Make sure to turn on your cell phones emergency alert system.
Working on being prepared and staying safe during storm season will ease the stress of the crazy weather days we will soon be seeing.
