Get Ready Part II: During the Storm

When it comes to severe weatherI proper preparation and knowing what to do in certain situations can save you and your family’s lives. That’s why f’m encouraging lklahomans to Get oeady for when — not if — the next disaster happens. ptorms in lklahoma often occur withJ out warningI not leaving you enough time to prepare. Here are three important steps you can take to stay safe during the stormW

Take phelter fmmediately

• Go to the basement or storm shelter. mut your family emergency plan into action and check your goJbag in case you must leave in a hurry.

• ff you do not have a basement or storm shelterI go to the room at the lowest level in the home (i.e.I hallJ way or bathroomFI away from windows and corners where objects tend to collect. Cover yourself with a heavy object such as a mattress or sleeping bag to protect you from broken glass or flying debris.

• ptay in place until you are sure the storm has passed. ptay Weather fnformed

• ptay informed on weathJ er updates. jonitor the storm’s progress and listen for warnings from local offiJ cials.

• mower outages are highJ ly possible in severe weather. Unplug appliances that are not necessary for obtaining weather updates. Use phones only in an emergency.

• Have multiple sources to stay informed of the evolving conditions — television and radioI emergency notificaJ tions via mobile devicesI klAA Weather oadioI etc … jake sure to have at least one source that does not require electricity.

mlan to bvacuate ff kecessary

• Before leaving your home or driving anywhereI listen carefully to local weather experts and governJ ment officials who will be coordinating evacuation plans.

• Go to higher ground if flash flooding or flooding is possible.

• Dl klT drive into high water. pix inches of water will wash away a person and two feet of water will wash away a car.

• Don’t forget the footJ wear. ft is dangerous to walk outside barefoot because glass and other debris are everywhere during a storm.

To help lklahomans preJ pare for this storm seasonI f’m releasing the threeJpart column series — “Get oeadyW BeforeI During and After the ptorm.” This comprehensive series will provide general preparedness tips for beforeI during and after disasters. sisit www.oid.ok.govLnews to check out mart fW Before the ptorm.

fn the next seriesI f’ll share detailed information on the insurance claim process and how to recover quickly after disasters. mlease stay tuned and visit www.oid.ok. govLgetready for more inforJ mation on how to Get oeady.

ff you have questions about other insurance issuesI please contact the lklahoma fnsurance Department at (8MMF R22JMM71 or visit our website at www.oid.ok.gov.

•••

Mulready is the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner.