One of those summers
It’s been a wonderful summer so far. Hot humid weather, tornados, power outages, rain, wind and falling trees all have factored into our July somewhere in Prince Albert region. Thankfully there have been few serious emergencies and most of us have coped well with the hot humid weather. Summer is not over as the calendar turns to August. Remember these summer time actions: drink plenty of water, stay cool, wear and reapply sun screen often.
The weather as spawned many episodes of high winds or even tornados. The awesome power of nature has many of us checking home insurance policies for coverage but also making sure our emergency plans are current. Knowing what to do during severe weather can mean the difference between surviving the storm or not.
Thunder and Lightning Storms
If you are inside:
• Unplug radios, TVs, and appliances. Use a battery-operated or wind-up radio to listen for weather warnings and instructions from authorities.
• Avoid using a corded phone and stay away from items that conduct electricity.
• If there is hail, stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights.
If you are outside:
• If caught in the open, crouch in the “leap frog” position to minimize ground contact. Do not go under a tree.
• If you are driving, stop your vehicle away from trees or power lines.
• If you are on the water, head for the shore immediately.
Tornadoes
If you are inside:
• If you are in a high-rise, do not use elevators.
• Go to the basement or small interior ground floor room. Take shelter under a table or desk.
• Stay away from windows, outside walls, fireplaces and doors.
• Avoid using a corded phone and stay away from items that conduct electricity.
• Limit phone calls to urgent messages only.
If you are outside:
• If time permits, go to the nearest solid shelter. If not, take cover in a low lying area such as a ditch and protect your head. Beware of flooding and downpours and be prepared to move.
• Do not shelter under a bridge as winds can accelerate.
• Do not shelter in a mobile home that does not have a solid foundation.