Summer Storm Safety

Staying Safe During Summer Storms: Essential Tips for Weathering the Elements

As temperatures rise and the days grow longer, summer storms become a frequent hazard. While these storms can bring relief from the heat, they also come with risks. In this post, we'll provide you with essential tips to help you stay safe during summer storms.

• Stay Informed: Stay updated on weather conditions before and during a summer storm. Reliable sources such as local news, weather apps, or websites can provide accurate forecasts. Pay attention to storm watches or warnings issued for your area. Being well-informed will enable you to make decisions and take necessary safety measures.
  
  
• Create an Emergency Preparedness Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essential items you may need during a storm. This kit should include a flashlight, spare batteries, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, bottled water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, a power bank for charging mobile devices, and any necessary medications. Store the kit in an easily accessible location and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.
  
  
• Secure Outdoor Items: Strong winds and heavy rainfall can turn everyday objects into dangerous projectiles. Take the time to secure or store outdoor furniture, potted plants, and other loose items that could potentially cause damage or injury if picked up by the wind. If possible, park your car in a covered area or away from trees that could fall during the storm.
  
  
• Seek Shelter and Watch Out for Lightning: When a storm approaches, seek shelter in a safe location. Indoors away from windows and exterior doors is the safest place. If caught outside and unable to reach shelter, find an open, low-lying area away from trees and electrical poles. Avoid open fields, hilltops, and bodies of water, which are at greater risk for lightning strikes. Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning, so take appropriate precautions.
  
  
• Stay Away from Flooded Areas: Summer storms often bring heavy rainfall, which can lead to flash floods. Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas as it's difficult to determine water depth or potential hazards beneath the surface. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off their feet, and two feet of water can carry away most vehicles. Be patient and wait for the water to recede before attempting to cross any flooded roadways.

Summer storms can be both awe-inspiring and dangerous. By following these essential safety tips, you can minimize risks from summer storms. Remember, your safety is paramount, and taking the necessary precautions can help you weather the elements and enjoy a safe summer season.