Storm Safety Rules

Storms are atmospheric disturbances that can bring strong winds, rain, snow, hail, sleet, thunder and lightning. Storms, for the most part, are unpredictable, other than short-term weather forecasting. Storms happen all over the Earth in every type of climate. To prepare and survive during a storm, it is always a good idea to know basic safety rules.

Awareness and Planning

• Create a disaster plan outlining emergency/drill procedures. Determine where everyone should meet during an actual storm and what evacuation routes are available. Include emergency contact phone numbers to call family and friends.

  Learn CPR and first aid.

  Assemble and store a survival kit in your home, office and car. This kit should contain basic necessities, such as a first aid kit with manual, flashlight with extra batteries, emergency food and water, cigarette lighter, personal hygiene supplies, blanket, medications, trash bag, cap and gloves or extra clothes.

  Monitor weather forecasts and be aware of changing conditions. The Emergency Broadcast System on radio and TV will announce a "watch" if an emergency is expected, and a "warning" if the storm is imminent or already in progress.

  Find the locations of main utility switches for your water, gas and electricity. Learn how to turn them off in case they are ruptured.

Floods

• Before a flood, find out if your property is located on a flood plain. If it is, install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwaters from backing up. You could also plug all sinks, tubs and showers. Purchase sandbags, plastic sheeting, lumber and towels to block water from accessing your structure.

  Disconnect all gas and electrical appliances, and shut off the water main to keep contaminated water from entering the water heater.

  Relocate valuable items to upper floors.

  Watch for flooding at bridges, canals and valleys.

  Do not cross flowing water that is above your knees.

  Do not drive across flooded or barricaded roads. It may be impossible to tell how deep the water is and what obstructions lie ahead.

  Use a flashlight when inspecting your building after the flood. Wear rubber-soled shoes and gloves in case electrical lines are severed. Do not turn on electrical switches or use flood-damaged appliances. Do not use municipal water until authorities have deemed it safe.

Thunderstorms

• Lightning is usually associated with thunderstorms and kills many people in the United States each year. Lighting is attracted to tall objects, so avoid trees, hilltops, telephone and light poles.

  If you are caught in an open area, drop to the ground in a crouched position and put your hands on your knees.

  Stay away from any metal equipment which can conduct electrical energy.

  Watch for flash floods and head for higher ground.

Dust Storm

• Dust storms generally frequent the desert southwest of the United States. High winds pick up dirt from desert terrain and agricultural fields, engulfs miles of highways and blinds drivers.

  If you see a dust storm crossing the highway in front of you, reduce your speed and turn on your lights. Generally, if you can not see 300 feet in front of your vehicle, you should cautiously pull off the pavement a safe distance and wait for it to pass. Turn your lights off, set the emergency brake and make sure your brake light is not on. This will reduce the likelihood of a rear-end collision.

After the Storm

• If indoors, stay inside unless it is no longer safe to do so.

  Tend to any injuries incurred as a result of the storm. Check on the welfare of your family, friends or co-workers. If injuries are serious, call 911. Try not to move them.

  Listen for updates of emergency broadcasts and follow directives given by emergency responders when they arrive.

  If you are driving, stop and exit only when the danger is gone.

  If you are in a building, move away from falling objects, windows, cabinets and shelves.

  Do not use elevators, and only turn off utilities if they are leaking.