Severe weather can strike quickly and create a significant disruption in our daily lives – especially when there is flooding, or the power goes out. As hurricane season heats up in the Atlantic Ocean, now is a good time to assess whether you are ready for a major storm or other emergency event that hits close to home.

Here are some storm safety tips so you can be ready:

• Have a flashlight and extra batteries handy.
• Always keep an emergency supply of bottled water, especially if you have a water well and pump.
• Stock up on non-perishable foods that do not require cooking.
• Purchase a first-aid kit – or build your own – with adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes and other items.
• Do not use gas stoves, grills or other open-flame appliances indoors. They could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to build up in your home.
• Keep a battery-powered radio so you can get storm updates and other information.
• Charge your smartphone, tablet and laptop before severe weather arrives. It’s also a good idea to sign up for weather alerts and warnings in your area.
• Keep a hard-wired telephone handy to call for help in an emergency. These phones operate on power delivered through the phone line.
• Create an evacuation plan and designate a safe place for family members to meet.

An emergency supply kit should include basic items (e.g., water, non-perishable food, first-aid kit, flashlight and extra batteries) that a household might need during emergencies.

The best advice is to prepare in advance for emergency situations. Visit www.Ready.gov or www.Do1Thing.com so you can be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way this summer.

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