10 Safety Steps to Take If a Storm Hits Near You
Severe storms can strike with little warning, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, flooding, and even tornadoes. With recent storms impacting parts of the U.S., knowing what to do before, during, and after a storm can protect you and your family.
Here are 10 essential safety steps to follow if a storm hits nearby.
Quick tip: If your phone has emergency alerts, keep them turned on. When a warning is issued for your area, take action immediately don’t wait.
10 Storm Safety Steps
1. Monitor Weather Alerts Immediately
Stay updated through the National Weather Service (NWS), weather apps with alerts enabled, local news stations, or a NOAA weather radio. If a warning is issued, take action right away.
2. Seek Shelter Indoors
If you’re outside, move indoors immediately. The safest place is a basement or an interior room on the lowest level with no windows. Stay away from windows and glass doors.
3. Avoid Flooded Areas
Never drive or walk through floodwater. Even shallow water can be dangerous. Fast-moving water can knock you down, and vehicles can be swept away.
4. Unplug Electronics
Lightning can cause power surges that damage electronics and increase fire risk. Unplug non-essential devices if it’s safe to do so.
5. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Keep supplies ready: bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and necessary medications.
Preparation reduces panic and keeps you safer.
6. Stay Off the Roads
Driving in severe weather increases the risk of hydroplaning, accidents from debris, and flash flooding. Only travel if absolutely necessary.
7. Avoid Using Water and Plumbing During Lightning
Lightning can travel through plumbing. Avoid showers, baths, and washing dishes during active lightning storms.
8. Watch for Downed Power Lines
After the storm, stay away from fallen wires and assume all power lines are live. Report hazards to local authorities immediately.
9. Check for Injuries Safely
Once conditions are safe, check family members for injuries and use your first-aid kit if needed. Call emergency services for serious injuries. Avoid moving severely injured people unless necessary for safety.
10. Seek Medical Care if Needed
Storm-related injuries can include cuts from debris, falls, head injuries, electrical burns, and heat exhaustion after power outages.
If you have dizziness, chest pain, deep wounds, breathing difficulty, or signs of infection, visit Walk In Urgent Care for prompt evaluation.
When to Call 911
Call emergency services immediately if someone has:
- Trouble breathing
- Severe bleeding
- Loss of consciousness
- Signs of stroke or heart attack
Final Thoughts
Storms can be unpredictable, but preparation saves lives. Staying informed, taking shelter quickly, and avoiding floodwater or downed power lines can significantly reduce your risk of injury. If you or a loved one experiences a storm-related injury, Walk In Urgent Care is here to provide fast, professional care when you need it most.
