Extended Community

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain. Learn how to stay safe before, during and after a winter storm.

Wild fires often begin unnoticed. They spread quickly, igniting brush, trees and homes. In a wild fire, every second counts! Learn about the steps you can take if you are in area prone to wildfires, what to do if there are reports of active fires in your area and what actions to take when returning home after a wildfire.

Tsunamis are a series of large ocean waves generated by major earthquakes beneath the ocean floor or major landslides into the ocean. The tsunami danger period can continue for many hours after a major earthquake. A tsunami can occur during any season of the year and at any time, day or night. Learn how to prepare, steps to take when a warning is issued and after the event has passed.

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from the base of a thunderstorm down to the ground. Tornado intensities are classified on the Fujita Scale with ratings between F0 (weakest) to F5 (strongest). They are capable of completely destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees and hurling objects through the air like deadly missiles. Learn how to prepare for a tornado, what actions to take when the warning is issued and after the tornado has passed.

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Learn what you can do to be prepared, and what actions you should take during and after a thunderstorm to stay safe.

Disaster can bring about significant stress. Each positive action you take can help you feel better and more in control.

Preparing to return home after evacuating will keep you safer while inspecting and cleaning up the damage to your home. Before traveling, ensure local officials have declared that it’s safe to enter your community and that you have the supplies you will need. Follow these suggestions for returning to, inspecting and cleaning your home.

Sudden power outages can be frustrating and troublesome, especially when they last a long time. If a power outage is 2 hours or less, you need not be concerned about losing your perishable foods. For prolonged power outages, though, there are steps you can take to minimize food loss and to keep all members of your household as comfortable as possible.