Identify your safe place before severe weather blows in

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Sure it is the kind of detail that easily falls to the bottom of a jam packed to-do list. But knowing ahead of time where to go when an ugly storm is bearing down could save your life.

“Sometimes you don’t have a lot of warning before severe weather hits, so you don’t want to waste time trying to come up with a plan of where to go on the spot,” said Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension housing and consumer specialist. “Knowing where to go and what to do in case of an emergency also calms fears and reduces the chance of injury or death.”

Lots of Oklahomans have storm shelters. In those cases, it is important to make sure it is registered with the county or city. Families also should tell an out-of-town friend or family member of its location so the contact can alert authorities where to look in the case of a disaster.

In lieu of a storm shelter, basements or cellars could be suitable alternatives. The lowest level of a home will work, too, especially if an underground area is not available.

“As you’re scouting potential safe spaces in the lower level of your house, look for interior rooms such as closets or interior hallways, but stay away from areas near doors, windows and outside walls,” Peek said.

Generally, families should plan to shelter at home when possible and safe to do so, since people have been hurt while traveling during a storm. Families also may be aware of any nearby community storm shelters.

Once identified, safe places, including storm shelters, should be kept clean and easily accessible at a moment’s notice.

Underground areas and storm shelters should be stocked with supplies such as food and water for three days, changes of weather appropriate clothing and a first aid kit, Peek said.

“Keep electronics such as cell phones and weather radios on so you can be up to date and listen for changes in the weather,” she said. “Also, keep pairs of sturdy, lace up shoes for each member of the family in the safe space in case you have to climb or dig out of debris.”

Do not forget to consider any special equipment or assistive devices such as walkers or wheelchairs family members may need. Check in advance to be sure the devices will fit and still allow everyone to quickly and easily take cover.

Finally, the safe place should be used only for its intended purpose.

“Avoid thinking of your storm shelter or safe space as storage space or an extra closet,” Peek said. “If all your family members can’t fit or if the items could harm you during a storm, you’re defeating the purpose of having that extra protection.”