Tornadoes

Tornadoes can strike western PA with little warning.

• Move to basement or interior room on lowest floor
• Put as many walls between you and outside as possible
• Get under sturdy furniture and protect your head
• Stay away from windows
• Mobile homes offer NO protection — seek a substantial building

Flooding

Flash flooding is our most common severe weather threat. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down; 12 inches can carry a car.

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown — never drive through flooded roads
• Move to higher ground if flooding threatens
• Stay out of floodwater — it may contain sewage
• Don’t let children play near floodwater

Lightning

If you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be struck.

• “When thunder roars, go indoors”
• Avoid open fields, hilltops, and isolated trees
• Stay away from water
• Wait 30 minutes after last thunder before going back outside

Winter Storms

Ice storms and heavy snow can knock out power and make roads impassable.

• Stay off roads during winter storm warnings
• Dress in layers if power is lost
• Never use a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors
• If stranded in your car, stay with it and run the engine briefly for heat
• Check on elderly neighbors

Extreme Heat

Heat waves can be deadly, especially for the elderly, young children, and those with chronic conditions.

• Stay hydrated — drink water before you feel thirsty
• Stay in air-conditioned spaces during peak heat (11am – 4pm)
• Never leave children or pets in vehicles — temperatures can reach 140°F in minutes
• Know the signs of heat stroke: hot dry skin, confusion, loss of consciousness — call 911 immediately
• Check on elderly neighbors who may not have air conditioning

Power Outages

Extended power outages from severe weather create secondary hazards that cause more injuries than the storm itself.

• Generators go OUTSIDE only — at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents
• Never use charcoal grills, camp stoves, or gas ovens for heating
• Unplug appliances to prevent damage from power surges when electricity returns
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food (4 hours fridge, 48 hours full freezer)
• Use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire

Water & Food

• 1 gallon water per person per day (3-day supply)
• Non-perishable food (3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Baby formula if needed
• Pet food and water

Power & Light

• Flashlights (one per person)
• Extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Phone chargers and backup batteries
• Candles and matches

First Aid & Medicine

• First aid kit
• Prescription medications (7-day supply)
• Over-the-counter medications
• Medical equipment (glasses, hearing aids)

Tools & Supplies

• Multi-tool or knife
• Wrench to turn off utilities
• Whistle to signal for help
• Cash in small bills
• Important documents in waterproof container

Personal Items

• Change of clothing for each person
• Sturdy shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Personal hygiene items
• Contact information for family

Winter Car Kit

• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Small shovel
• Cat litter or sand for traction
• Jumper cables
• Blankets, extra gloves, hat
• Flashlight and phone charger