Storm Season is upon us

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Here in the great PNW, peak storm season is from May to July. What does that mean for you? It means it's time to start preparing for the inevitable thunderstorms that will roll in from the coast and batter our homes.  What can you do to prepare for storm season? a great start is to follow Red Cross Thunderstorm Safety checklist: 

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms

• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household

• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail

• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm

• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches

• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home

• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods

• Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies

• Put together an emergency preparedness kit

• Review the Be Red Cross Ready - Thunderstorm Safety Checklist

 During a thunderstorm, you can: 

• Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates. Watch for signs of a storm, like darkening skies, lightning flashes or increasing wind.

• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely to occur. Many people struck by lightning are not in the area where rain is occurring.

• If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, take shelter in a substantial building or in a vehicle with the windows closed. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.

• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning. If thunder roars, go indoors! The National Weather Service recommends staying inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder clap.

• Avoid electrical equipment and telephones. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead.

• Shutter windows and close outside doors securely. Keep away from windows.

• Do not take a bath, shower or use plumbing.

• If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

• If you are outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground; water; tall, isolated trees; and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT safe.

For more information on storm safety, follow the link above to the Red Cross storm Safety page.  If you have any storm cleanup needs, call us anytime at (253)-896-3000!