Spring Storm Preparedness

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

Be Prepared when Spring Storms Become Severe

Each year a startling 10,000 thunderstorms and 1,000 tornadoes impact the United States. Potentially deadly severe weather impacts everyone. Here's what you can do to prepare yourself and your family.

Before Severe Weather Strikes

• Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light or increasing wind. Listen for the sound of thunder.
• Go to a safe shelter immediately!
• Listen to Local/National Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for the latest weather forecasts.
• Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances.
• Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
• Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressor.
• Draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blown by the wind, the shades will prevent glass from shattering into your home.

Protecting Yourself Outside

• If you are in the woods, go to a safe building. Make sure it is fully enclosed with a roof and four walls. Tents, shelters, pavilions, or dugouts will not keep you safe.
• If you are unable to find a shelter, find a low-lying, open place away from trees, telephone poles, or metal objects.
• Get low to the ground, on the balls of your feet in a crouching position. The goal is to get as low as possible, while minimizing your contact with the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them.

After the Storm Passes

• Stay away from storm-damaged areas.
• Listen to the radio for information and instructions.

If Someone is Struck by Lightning

• People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.
• Call or have someone dial 911.

For more information on severe weather, please call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City at:  702-564-8508