IEMA: Prepare for Floods and Tornados
As part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week (March 1-7), the Illinois Emergency Management Agency is asking Illinoisans to be prepared for floods and tornados.
IEMA spokeswoman Patti Thompson says that the chance of severe flooding is in the forecast this spring. Last year six people were killed in flood related incidents with millions of dollars of damage caused to homes, businesses and personal and public property. The National Weather Service says flooding is the number one weather-related killer in the U.S. with about 100 people loosing their lives in flood related incidents each year.
Tips on staying safe:
* Never attempt to drive over a flooded roadway.
* Never let children play in or near flood waters.
* Know how to shut off your home?s electricity and gas.
* If advised to evacuate, do so quickly.
* Avoid contact with flood waters.
As for tornados, those with basements or storm shelters should make sure they have flashlights with fresh batteries, basic necessities and a battery operated radio. Thompson says everyone should have a weather radio in their home.
There were 48 tornados reported in Illinois during 2008. While most tornados occur between April 1 and June 30, they can and have occurred in every month of the year. Nearly 30 percent of all tornados occur after dark.
A severe weather preparedness guide is available at www.ready.illinois.gov or by calling 217 785-9888.
