When severe weather is expected, you need to know how to stay safe. Now is the time to make sure you and your family are prepared.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you get ready before storms move in:
1. Know where you’ll go
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Identify your safest place – lowest level, interior room, away from windows
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Make sure it’s clear and accessible
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Talk through the plan with your family
2. Don’t rely on sirens alone
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You may not hear outdoor warning sirens, especially overnight
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Follow reputable meteorologists
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Have multiple ways to receive alerts
3. Set up emergency alerts
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Download the DR Messenger app, as recommended by the Covington-Tipton County Emergency Management Association
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Use code TIPTONCOWEATHER to enroll in local alerts
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Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your phone
4. Prepare your safe space
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Put shoes, helmets and a flashlight in your shelter area
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Keep a fully charged phone nearby
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Have a way to monitor weather conditions
5. Charge up now
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Charge phones, portable chargers and backup batteries
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Consider charging weather radios or other devices
6. Build a simple “go kit” – just in case!
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Medications
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IDs and important documents (or photos of them)
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Water and snacks
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Flashlight and batteries
7. When a warning is issued
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Go to your safe place immediately – do not wait to see the storm
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Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary
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If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdier shelter ahead of time
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Paper Folds has compiled a list of tornado shelters and safe spaces available in Tipton County
8. After the storm passes
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Watch for downed power lines and debris
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Check on neighbors, especially elderly residents
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Continue monitoring for additional warnings
