Severe Weather: Are you Prepared?

 Being ready for the worst is a suggestion that shouldn’t be shrugged off as illustrated by last week’s massive earthquake in Japan.

The natural disaster across the Pacific Ocean likely to result in tens of thousands of deaths proved that as Indiana recognizes Severe Weather Preparedness Week March 13 through 19.

The week is highlighted by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS), in cooperation with the National Weather Service, Indiana State Police, Indiana Public Safety Commission, Indiana Department of Education, the Indiana Broadcasters Association, the American Red Cross, Indiana Department of Transportation and the amateur radio community.

While natural disaster can strike anytime, March through June is the state’s peak season for severe storms and tornadoes.

Now is a great time for the citizens and businesses of  Howard, Miami and other Indiana counties to review their preparedness plans.

“Everyone needs to have a plan for their family and business in case of an emergency. This is a good time to exercise your plan,” says Dearborn County Emergency Management Agency director Bill Black.

Indiana residents will hear sirens sounding off on two occasions Wednesday. The National Weather Service will conduct two siren tests, one between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. and a second between 7:30 and 7:45 p.m.

“Every family, school and business should take time now to review or create a weather safety action plan, said IDHS Executive Director Joe Wainscott. “The March 16th tornado drills are an excellent time to practice these plans.”

The American Red Cross urges families, businesses, schools, and others to have a three day supply kit of essentials ready in the event of a major disaster.

The kit should include these items:

-Water

-Food

-Flashlights with extra batteries

-First-aid supplies

-Radio (batter-powered or hand-crank, NOAA)

-Multi-purpose tool

-Cell phone with chargers

-Clothing Blankets or Sleeping Bags

-Sanitation and personal hygiene items

-Copies of important family documents

-Family and emergency contact information

-Extra cash

-Emergency blanket

-Map(s) of the area

-Medications (7-day supply) and medical items

“Being informed is an essential first step, but Hoosiers must also join the effort of being prepared,” said Wainscott. “During a disaster, emergency services may be stressed and in high demand. Being able to take care of your own needs – for even a short time – will help responders assist those needing it most.”

Learn more about Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana at the Department of Homeland Security’s website at, http://www.in.gov/dhs/.