Preparing for spring storms

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - With the first spring storm of the season sweeping through the area, officials with Montgomery County's Office of Emergency Management wanted to make sure residents were prepared.

Spring time weather was unpredictable, and could turn wicked in an instant. Officials said before you heard the sirens or saw flashes of lightning in the sky, it was best to get a basic emergency kit ready.

In that kit, you should have a flashlight with extra batteries, battery powered weather radio, a three day supply of bottled water, that's one gallon per person, per day, and canned food with a manual can opener.

"Know where the circuit breakers are in your house. If you have an emergency plan review it with your family. Make sure you have a radio with extra batteries set aside," said Jeff Jordan, the Director of the Office of Emergency Management.

For those who needed needed medications, officials said they should keep a 3-day supply handy. Also be prepared with supplies for people with special needs, some basic tools, and a fully charged cell phone.

If rain flooded your streets, make sure your kids are not playing around drainage ditches or flood waters, where they can be swept away.

"Be aware of your environment. If you're outside and it doesn't look right, best thing to do is get to media outlet, listen, and trust your instincts," said Jordan.

If you hear thunder, lightning is sure to follow. Officials said you are are safest inside your home, during a lightning storm. Do not take a bath or shower. Water and copper tubing are excellent conducters of electricity.

If you're outside, you are safest inside your car.