Being prepared

April is usually a month for weather extremes but this year, things have been out of control in many regions.

First we saw a record number of tornadoes slashing through the nation's midsection and south, leaving a path of death and destruction. That was following by the threat of wildfires in many areas, including our own, where rainfall and snow pack levels have reduced water tables, elevating the threat of fires in our tinder-dry woodlands.

Throughout the weekend and into today, much of the eastern seaboard is dealing with a massive weather system which is threatening flash flooding and even some heavy snow in parts of western Pennsylvania and upstate New York. This sudden return to winter comes just over a week after residents in many sections of the Northeast were basking in 80-plus degree temperatures.

These weather extremes show just how critical the advance warning systems and pre-planning can be for residents. With the massive outbreak of tornadoes two weeks ago, we saw that while residents lost homes and property, they at least lived through the disaster, thanks to be alerted well in advance of the system.

Paul Davis Restoration of Lehigh Valley - www.allentownrestoration.com - a provider of water damage cleanup and fire damage restoration services for residential and commercial properties, lists a number of spring storm safety tips to protect people and property.

In the event of an extreme weather storm alert, it's important to have a disaster plan and emergency kit already in place. In case of an evacuation, persons should know the nearest designated storm shelter.

A Basic Emergency Kit should include:

• Water - one gallon of water per person and pets per day for at least

three days.

• Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food for

adults, children and pets, along with a can opener.

• Battery-powered or hand crank commercial radio and a NOAA Weather Radio.

• Cell Phone with charger.

• Flashlight

• First aid kit - sterile dressings; antibiotic ointment; scissors;

thermometer; non-prescription drugs such as pain relievers; prescription medications and supplies.

• Copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account

records in waterproof container.

• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.

• Fire extinguisher

Here are some valuable tips for protecting your property from severe

weather.

• Clear yard of loose articles and debris. Keep yard tools, patio

furniture, grills, garbage cans and toys stored when not in use.

• Trim trees and shrubs to prevent branches from breaking off during

high winds.

• Inspect your roof and repair any loose shingles to prevent leakage

from water and winds, and remove debris.

• Repair siding, awnings, gutters, downspouts and brackets if loose or

damaged.

• Secure major appliances to the wall studs or foundation of your home using "L" brackets.

These tips can be lifesavers when we find ourselves in the midst of a nor'easter, like the one bearing down on this region right now.

By Jim Zbick

jzbick@tnonline.com