Spring Weather Safety Reminders

Spring weather can be very unpredictable. From rain, hail, wind and tornadoes, severe weather can happen unexpectedly and it’s important to be prepared. Here are some safety reminders for those unexpected storms that can help keep you and your family safe:

Thunderstorms & Lightening 

1. During thunderstorms remain indoors and do not take a shower, bath, or use plumbing because water can be a conduit for lightening. Also stay away from metal and do not use electrical appliances, which can cause electric shock if struck by lightening.
2. If you are outside, stay away from trees and seek shelter in a sturdy building.
3. If you are in your car, do not make contact with the metal outside.
4. If you plan on going back outside, wait at least 30 minutes from the last rumble before returning.

Hail Storms

1. During a hail storm, some storms can produce hail the size of baseballs. Be sure to protect your head with your hands as you seek shelter and stay away from windows.
2. Remember to put your vehicle in a garage if possible and bring all pets inside.
3. If you are traveling in your car, try to seek shelter before the hail starts as it can break through glass.

Tornadoes

1. During a tornado, pick a safe room with no windows on the lowest floor of your home. If no room is available, move to the closest interior hallway.
2. Cover yourself with blankets, pillows or a mattress to protect yourself from falling debris.
3. If you’re outside, get to the nearest shelter possible. If you’re unable to find shelter, look for low ground and lay on your stomach with your hands covering your head, protecting yourself from falling debris.
4. Do not go under an underpass or bridge as those can have a wind-tunnel effect.

Flash Floods

1. During flash floods, try to avoid being outside at all costs. Floods happen quickly and can occur anywhere.
2. If you are driving, do not attempt to drive through a flooded area. It only takes a couple feet of water to flood your car. If your car stalls, abandon it and find higher ground.
3. Move hazardous materials such as paint and oil to a higher location so it cannot contaminate the water during a flood.

You never know when the next storm will hit, but it’s important to be aware of tips to help prepare for them. Have other safety reminders to help prepare for severe weather? Share them below!