IN CASE OF STORM EMERGENCIES...
Due to our ever changing weather conditions here in Minnesota we are
always at risk from dangerous conditions such as thunder storms, tornadoes
or severe winter storms.
Be prepared...
The best way to remain calm in an emergency is to be prepared.
- Have a plan ahead for possible storm conditions by knowing where you'll
be safest
- Have supplies on hand - your own "Portable Disaster Kit"
- Listen to your local radio and television stations for Nation Weather
Advisories
- Take direction from authorities regarding a storm watch or warning
and evacuation
- Cooperate with your neighbors
What to do...
- Remain inside during the storm unless otherwise directed
- Fill containers, bathtub and indoor washing machine with clean water
(you will need 2 qts per person per day for drinking)
- Shut off water and electricity at main stations (use electricity only
in a dry area standing on dry wood with rubber glove and shoes)
- Shut off any propane gas tanks and secure outside
- Lock and board or tape windows, close shutters
- Move furniture away from exposed door and windows
- Brace doors with strong wood and make water tight
- Unplug TV, disconnect TV antenna leads and store antenna
- Have buckets of sand in case of fire
- Protect valuables in water proof containers and place in high, safe
location
- Secure awnings and outdoor furniture
- Fill gas tank of your car, park in garage or away from trees and utility
poles
- Do not stay in stranded car or block roads
- Be sure that children and adults have identification
- Eat well before leaving or turning off utilities
- Bring pets inside. They are not allowed in public shelters. If going
to a shelter leave them with moist food and 5-day supply of water (1 qt
per day)
Portable Disaster Kit...
- Identification and valuable papers/documents
- Personal hygiene products for babies and adults
- Medication
- Portable radio
- Flashlight
- Batteries
- Bedding
- Clothing
- Plastic bags
- Rope or twine
Where to go...
If your home is a secure structure in a protected area, remain inside
during storms.
If your home is threatened by the storm, flooding or high winds arrange
for safe lodging with family, friends, or at a commercial facility. Listen
for evacuation instructions.
Shelters will be opened by local government authorities as needed for
those with no other safe option. If going to a sheter be prepared with
your own supplies - your Portable Disaster Kit. No animals, alcohol or
firearms are allowed. Listen for announcement of openings.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red
Cross offer nationwide educational services. For more information write
to FEMA, ask for the brochure: "Are You Ready?" H-34, item #8-0908,
PO Box 70274, Washington, DC 20024.
Also see:
The American Red Cross Home Page
FEMA's Home Page
FEMA's - Alphabetical Index of
the FEMA WWW Server
The Weather Channel - Project
Safeside