American Red Cross Urges Planning in Wake of Storms

WASHINGTON — As the nation recovers from the severe weather conditions across the High Plains and the south, the American Red Cross is asking the public to prepare for future storm activity.

Make a plan for safe shelter – It is important to know the safest locations to take cover from a storm at home, work and school. Locate a basement, center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor where everyone should gather. The area should be windowless and free of objects that can become projectiles during high winds. If you are in a high-rise building there may not be time to reach a lower floor before the storm hits. Head to the center of the building.
Build an Emergency Preparedness Kit – Kits should contain a first aid kit and essential medications; three-day supply of canned or non-perishable food and manual can opener; at least three gallons of water per person; flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries; and other emergency items for the whole family, including pets. Prepare a personal size kit to keep at work and in the car. For more information on what to include in an Emergency Preparedness Kit, log on to the Get Prepared section of the Red Cross website at www.redcross.org.
Stay Informed of Warnings – Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information. Check with your local emergency management office to see if email and cell phone weather alerts are available in your area. A tornado WATCH means there is the possibility of tornado activity in your area. When a tornado WARNING is issued, immediately head to your planned safe shelter. If you are outside, hurry to a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area. If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety.