By State Sen. Dennis Kruse (R-Auburn)
With changing seasons comes unpredictable weather in the Hoosier State. Severe weather can develop quickly, which means you must be prepared to seek shelter and take necessary safety precautions.
In June 1990 the largest outbreak of tornadoes ever hit Indiana. A total of 37 tornadoes tore through 31 counties, killing eight people and injuring more than 200. In fact, this particular storm cell produced 64 tornadoes in nine states. Storms like this show us the destruction severe weather can cause and how important it is to prepare for severe weather of all types.
The first thing that you and your family need to know about severe weather is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A watch means that the conditions are favorable for a thunderstorm, flood or tornado, while a warning means that the severe weather is happening or will happen shortly.
Fortunately, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security developed a severe weather preparedness fact sheet to help families understand how to prepare before, during and after storms hit. Some of the important tips include:
Before:
· Keep trees trimmed so they won’t fall onto buildings, cars or people.
· If in a flood plain, put hot water heaters, electrical panels and furnaces away from the ground.
· Make a disaster kit which includes water, non-perishable foods, batteries, flashlight, batter-operated radio, first aid kit, blankets and clothes. Make sure you can take it with you in case of evacuation.
· Establish two meeting places and make sure everyone knows the address and phone number of each location:
1. Right outside of your home in case of a sudden emergency
2. Outside of your neighborhood in case you can’t return home
During:
· Postpone or cancel outdoor activities and listen to weather reports.
· If in a vehicle, get out and go into a strong building if possible. In case of a tornado, lie in a flat ditch and cover your head.
· If you live in a mobile home, get out immediately. Seek shelter in a building with a strong foundation.
· Basements, inner rooms and storm cellars provide the best protection during a thunderstorm or tornado.
After:
· If injured, seek necessary medical care.
· If you can, safely help others who may be trapped or injured.
· Stay out of damaged buildings and any building surrounded by flood water.
· Avoid entering any building until local officials indicate it is safe.
· Continue to listen for weather updates and report any damaged utility lines to local authorities.
· Examine your home for cracks in the foundation and walls, along with possible gas leaks or fire hazards.
More information about severe weather preparedness can be found on the Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s website: www.in.gov/dhs.
Knowing how to stay safe and planning ahead can mean the difference between life and death. Make sure your family is prepared this storm season.
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