Survey your property. Take note of materials  stored, placed or used which could become missiles and destroy other structures or be destroyed. Devise methods of securing these items where they will still be accessible for day-today needs.

Keep weather radio, radio and/or TV on and monitor for wind advisories for you area.

If possible, board up, tape or shutter all windows, but leave some ventilation.

Store water in case water service is interrupted.

Have a supply of flashlights, spare batteries, candles, first aid equipment, medicines, etc., available for use.

Secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, tools, etc.

Take shelter in hallways and closets; avoid windows.

Stay out of areas where flying objects may hit you or destroy your place of refuge.

Inspect the building for structural damage.

Check all utilities for damage and proper operation.

Monitor radio and TV for instruction from local leaders.

Survey your home and premises to determine types and amounts of hazardous materials on hand. Read labels and become familiar with potential dangers of materials used in the home.

Provide proper storage and safeguards for hazardous materials. Commercial fertilizers and petroleum products in proper proportions are components of plastic explosives. Never store in same storage area.

Most household cleaning agents are hazardous materials. Use store and dispose of them properly.

Sort through your storage containers. If you don’t remember what is in them or cannot read the labels, dispose of the containers.

Remain uphill and upwind from the source of hazardous material. Stay far away and restrict other unauthorized people from approaching the scene until professional responders arrive.

Each situation with hazardous materials will call for a different response. Review sections on fire and poison control for those specific directions.

Remember, personal safety is of the utmost importance. Do not allow yourself or others to become part of the problem by endangering lives or property in an effort to gather information or control the situation without professional help.