MAKE SURE YOU ARE

PREPARED!

A Guide to Severe

Weather Preparedness

in 2015

As spring quickly approaches, it is important to keep in mind the dangers of severe weather, and be sure to be prepared in the event of a tornado, thunderstorm or flood. The following is a guide to help you prepare for severe weather.

Severe Weather

Preparedness

Before Severe Weather

Be sure to have a weather alert radio with battery backup, and continue to monitor the development of severe weather.

Make sure you have an emergency supply kit. If you already have one, now is a good time to make sure it is up to date.

For those who live in a mobile home, identify a safe place outside of your home in the event of severe weather.

Conduct tornado and severe weather safety drills from time to time.

Before Severe Weather

Be sure you know how to shut off electricity, gas and water.

Consider flood proofing your home, and make sure your insurance is up to date.

Before Severe Weather

During a Severe Storm

Monitor storm development using a weather alert radio, the internet or your local TV station.

Stay away from windows and exterior doors.

Avoid using electrical appliances until the storm passes.

If you do not have a basement, find a small interior hallway or room to take shelter.

If you are outside and there is no possible way to find indoor shelter, lie in a ditch or channel and use your arms to protect your head and neck.

During a Severe Storm

If in a vehicle, do NOT stop under a bridge or overpass. Leave the vehicle and seek shelter in a nearby building.

Know and use the recommended evacuation routes.

Turn off your air conditioners, and avoid taking showers and baths.

During a Severe Storm

In the event of a flood, move valuables to upper floors of the house.

Do NOT drive over flooded roadways.

During a Severe Storm

After Severe Weather

Continue to monitor your local weather stations.

Stay away from fallen power lines and natural gas leaks.

Check on injured victims and provide first aid if necessary, but do NOT move the severely injured unless absolutely necessary.

Use telephones only if you absolutely need to make a phone call.

Stay away from damaged areas until local officials allow entry.

After Severe Weather

For More Information

National Weather Service

The State of Illinois Emergency Management Agency