What is the best course of action to follow after receiving a preliminary weather advisory for hazards, such such as tornadoes, hurricanes, or severe storms?
1. Stay informed: Monitor the weather updates provided by official sources such as the National Weather Service, local news channels, or weather apps.
2. Review your emergency plan: Ensure that you have a plan in place for what to do in the event of a weather emergency and review it with your household members.
3. Secure your property: Take necessary precautions to secure your home and property by bringing in outdoor furniture, securing loose items, and boarding up windows if necessary.
4. Gather emergency supplies: Make sure you have a stocked emergency kit with necessary supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid kit, and any necessary medications.
5. Stay indoors: If advised by officials, stay indoors and away from windows during the storm. Seek shelter in an interior room with no windows if possible.
6. Follow evacuation orders: If authorities issue evacuation orders, follow them promptly and evacuate to a safe location.
7. Stay connected: Keep your phone charged and stay in touch with friends and family to let them know your whereabouts and stay updated on the situation.
8. Be prepared for power outages: Have a plan for power outages, such as using alternative sources of power or staying at a designated emergency shelter.
9. Stay calm: Stay calm and follow instructions given by emergency officials. Panic can lead to poor decision-making in critical situations.
10. After the storm passes, assess damage and check on neighbors: Once the storm has passed, assess any damage to your property and check on neighbors to ensure their safety. Follow any further instructions given by authorities for recovery efforts.