SEVERE WEATHER EMERGENCY PREPARATION 101

Today is significant in many ways. For starters, it's officially March and seasonal temperatures are mimicking the official start of ~spring.~ If you happened to have your phone nearby this morning, or work within city limits, you may have also heard the annual National Weather Service tornado drill. This drill comes as the state dedicates an entire week to severe weather preparedness. In light of this, we wanted to do our part and piece together a one stop destination on what you can do in your own home to prepare for severe weather, as well as what you should include in your at-home emergency kit. Keep reading on below for our tips and tricks on how to best plan for those unplanned circumstances.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER

[PETS]

Pet owners should have an additional kit prepared for their animals including but not limited to the following suggestions:

• A week's worth of food per each pet

• A gallon of water per day

• Any medications the pet takes

• A leash/crate

• Sanitation items such as pet bags or litter

[CHILDREN] 

Aside from the items above also applying to any children in the household, additional items you may have on hand for the little ones are as follows:

• Items of comfort (I.e. stuffed animal, special blanket etc.)

• Items to occupy time (I.e. coloring books & crayons, board game, etc.)

YOUR EMERGENCY BLUEPRINT: HOW TO NAVIGATE THE HOME

[IN CASE OF FIRE]

• Be sure you are changing your smoke detector batteries yearly

• Be sure each member of the household knows their escape route dependent on their location within the home

• Be sure everyone is aware of the same meeting location outside of the home -- you want to be sure everyone is accounted for as soon as you are able

[IN CASE OF TORNADO]

• Go to a basement, hallway or closet (make sure this space is enclosed and away from any windows)

• Be sure your emergency kit is with you wherever this safe space is

[IN CASE OF EARTHQUAKE]

• Try to be centered in the building, stand under a doorway or get under a desk or table and hang onto it

• Avoid windows, fireplaces or any heavy furniture and appliances

• Secure items like water heaters, book cases etc.

• Flexible connectors on plumbing

[IN CASE OF FLOOD]

• Go to an attic or second story

• Turn off utilities

• Bring valuables to high ground

Did we miss anything in our emergency kits? What are your best tips for securing a plan when severe weather strikes? We want to hear from YOU. Drop us your suggestions in the comment section below.