TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) - With spring comes showers and with showers comes storms... some strong ones at that! As we head into severe weather season, now is the time for you and your family to be prepared for what could be quite an active spring and summer.
Long before any risk of thunderstorms develop, you need to begin with a safety plan for your family. This plan should include where you will meet and under what circumstances you'll meet there.
- The most interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building
- Minimum: Tornado Warning & Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Could Include: Tornado Watch & Severe Thunderstorm Watch
Once you know where you're going, you need to know what to bring. Along with a safety plan, you need an emergency kit well before storms are possible. It should include all the "basics" from food and water to first-aid tools.
- Bottled Water for 72 hours
- Flashlights
- Extra Batteries
- Non-perishables for 72 hours
- First Aid Kit
- Extra Phone Battery Charger
- Weather Radio
With your safety plan and emergency kit together and ready, we come to the final step of preparation. This happens just hours before the potential storms.
When a severe threat is looming, those last minute details will make all the difference.
- Fully charge all devices (cell phones, tablets, etc.)
- Confirm the location of your immediate family (inform them of strong storm potential)
- Bring thick blankets/pillows for comfort and protection from potential debris
- Bring shoes for the whole family to protect feet from potential damage after the storm
- Prepare/sooth children and pets for loud sounds and unnerving situations
- Bring games, snacks and entertainment to keep everyone calm
Preparation will not only help calm the nerves but will also give you the best chance of keeping your family safe during the severe weather season.
The First Alert Weather team is always committed to keeping your family safe by giving you the First Alert through live severe weather updates online and on air along with the First Alert Weather App. Download it here!
