Meteorologist, Ellis Co. Emergency Management offer proper prep for severe weather (VIDEO)

By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

A weather radio device, when programmed for local alerts, can offer the best preparation and protection against an incoming tornado or thunderstorm, according to KAKE-TV meteorologist Jay Prater, who stood outside Dillons, 1902 Vine on Tuesday programming weather radios for “Weather Radio Tuesday,” a statewide tour providing severe weather safety advice.

“You wouldn’t think about living in a house without a smoke detector. You need to consider a weather radio as a smoke detector for severe weather,” Prater said. “There’s a lot of great information on television, the Internet and apps, but they won’t wake you up in the middle of the night.

KAKE-TV Meteorologist Jay Prater programs weather radios in Hays Tuesday. — KAKE-TV Meteorologist Jay Prater programs weather radios in Hays Tuesday at Dillons, 1902 Vine.

“The beauty of a weather radio is it will sit quietly, but when a warning is issued in your county or counties your concerned about, it will wake you up and you can go to those other sources of of information on how it’s going to impact you,” he said.

Director of Ellis County Emergency Management Bill Ring agreed having a reliable weather radio is the best and quickest protection, especially when there is a tornado warning.

“Usually, you only have minutes to respond.” Ring said, advising everyone have a plan in place when the alarm sounds.

Whether it is the basement or another safe room in the residence, Ring advised everyone in the family should know where to go and all families should have an emergency kit with items in place so no one is left “scrambling” at the last minute.

The emergency kit should include:

– A battery operated flashlight, and NOAA Weather Radio, as well as extra batteries for both

– An emergency evacuation plan, which includes a map of your home and, for every type of severe weather emergency, including routes to safety from each room

– A listing of important personal information, including telephone numbers of family and friends insurance and property information, telephone numbers of local public works and utility companies,, medical information, money (cash, checks, cards)

– Prescription medications, first aid kit which includes Hydrogen peroxide antibiotic ointment over the counter medicines such as aspirin, Tylenol, diarrhea medicine, band-aids and dressings for injuries

– A 5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food

– Personal hygiene items

– Blankets or sleeping bags

– Items necessary for the care and treatment of your household pet

For more severe weather safety tips, visit the Ellis Co. Emergency Management website.

Prater provides instructions on programming a NOAA Digital Weather Radio HERE.