Fire Chief Urges Residents to Use Weather Radios

This is National Severe Weather Awareness Week, and Fire Chief Jeff Branic has a few messages for residents.

First, take severe weather warnings seriously. Have a plan. And if possible, buy a NOAA Weather Radio. 

 A tone alert radio will give you severe weather information direct from the local National Weather Service office. Watches and warnings are preceded by a tone alert that can automatically activate your radio and get your attention with a high pitched alarm – even if storms hit in the middle of the night. 

"A weather radio is a key component in a family’s effort to prepare for possible disaster," Branic said.

Last year was a devastating year for tornadoes in the United States, with more than 1,700 twisters reported, including 59 killer tornadoes that claimed 550 lives, making it the deadliest year for tornadoes since 1925.

Some other advice from Branic and the Office of Emergency Management:

Tornado Watches and Warnings: When a tornado threatens, you may only have seconds to save yourself and your family. Have a preparedness plan for your home, school, and workplace. Know where to find the best tornado shelter.

Lightning Safety: If caught outdoors during a storm, don't stand next to tall trees or power poles. Look for more information during national lightning safety awareness week June 24 through June 30 or visit www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov.

Flash Flood Safety: Floods and flash floods kill more people nationwide than any other storm hazard in most years. About half of all flash flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Don't drive through flooded roads, especially if the water is moving rapidly. For more information, visit www.floodsafety.noaa.gov.

Severe Thunderstorm Safety: Go indoors and stay away from windows. Damaging straight line or downburst winds from a thunderstorm can do as much damage as a weak to moderate tornado, so take severe thunderstorm warnings seriously.

For more information, you visit the State of Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness at http://www.weathersafety.ohio.gov/.