Spring is upon us and the chance of severe weather is a possibility. So, why not take the time to prepare your family in case the electricity goes off or you need to go to the basement. I think being prepared ahead of time will be less stressful AND you can teach safety as well.

Make an emergency kit. Gather supplies and place them in a plastic bin with a lid. If you find you need to be in the basement waiting out a storm you can pass the time knowing that you have some supplies for the family. FEMA recommends the following items:

• Waterproof matches
• Candles
• Protein bars or snack crackers
• Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Plasticware, paper plates
• A change of clothing for each person
• Personal care products (toothbrush, deodorant, etc.)
• Plastic bags- quart and gallon size
• Add a deck of cards or a travel game to the bin for you to play in case you need to be in the room for a long period of time.
• Have a blanket and pillow and/or a sleeping bag so that you can be comfy.

School Ideas (safety and other subjects):

• Create the emergency kit together. Have your child gather the clothes, food supplies, etc.
• Discuss the importance of seeking shelter during a storm.
• Show your son or daughter where a good place would be to go to in the event of a severe storm. Practice going there and turning off the lights to simulate failed electricity.
• Have you or your child look at a map to locate tornado alley.
• Identify cloud types
• Discuss what creates a thunderstorm, a severe storm, and a tornado

Be Safe! ~Lisa~