Severe weather, including lightning, hail, flooding and heavy winds, are most common during the spring and summer months. Occasionally, tornadoes and hurricanes can also occur during this type weather.

Prior to the Emergency

• Ensure that you have enough food water, medication (if needed) and batteries. Because power is often lost during severe storms, foods that do not require cooking should be considered. See DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

• Check portable radios, smoke detectors and flashlights to ensure they are properly operating and that the batteries are fresh.

• Stay tuned to local weather and news reports. If emergency officials tell you to evacuate, do so, and without delay.

• If you are located in a low-lying area and flooding is anticipated, remove furniture and valuables from those areas that are prone to water accumulation.

• If strong winds are predicted (in excess of 70 miles per hour), consider boarding up or taping your windows to prevent breakage. Also, trash cans and other items around the yard, should be taken indoors to prevent the wind from carrying them away.

• Run necessary errands now, don't wait until the storm begins to venture outside.

• Ensure that your vehicle is fueled. Don!t drive during the storm unless it is necessary. If you must, stay away from roads near rivers and streams and areas where flooding may occur. NEVER CROSS OVER A ROADWAY THAT HAS FLOWING WATER. If your vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground.

During the Emergency

• Stay indoors and away from windows. If a tornado or hurricane-force winds are predicted, relocate to the basement or a room that has no windows (bathroom).

• If outside, seek shelter immediately.

• Stay tuned to local weather and news reports for emergency information. If told to evacuate by emergency officials, do so immediately.

• If power is lost, do not use candles for lighting. Use a flashlight.

After the Emergency

• Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters. If refrigeration is lost because of a power outage, perishable foods such as meat and milk products may not be suitable to eat and should be discarded.

• Even though the storm has passed, hazardous conditions may still exist, including downed power lines, trees and flood waters. Call utility companies to report downed lines and power outages.