Families are advised to review plans in case of severe weather so everyone knows where to go and how to get in touch with each other after the storm has passed.
John Bowen, Crow Wing County emergency management director, suggests designating a family member or friend - who lives outside the immediate area - as an emergency contact. Bowen said while phones may be overburdened with calls into a storm ravaged area, individuals may have an easier time calling out. Separated family members may be able to get messages to each other and confirm where they are and how they are doing.
In order to prepare for the worst, Bowen suggests keeping an emergency kit that could include snacks and even coloring books for small children as it may take some time to reach residents who may not be able to get out of their safe areas.
¥ Home safety kits may include a battery-powered radio, flashlight, blankets, a first-aid kit and water. Make sure all family members know the safest area to go in a storm.
¥ When seeking shelter in the basement or small interior room (like a closet or bathroom) of the lowest level, best places for shelter include beneath the basement stairs, near an outside wall, beneath a sturdy piece of furniture - such as a workbench. Avoid windows and doorways because of the danger of flying debris.
¥ Tornadoes may occur at any time of day but are most frequent between 3 and 10 p.m.
¥ The county does not issue an all-clear siren, but will repeat the tornado warning siren if the weather conditions call for additional alerts after the first blast.
¥ A map of the county's outdoor warning sirens is available online at www.co.crow-wing.mn.us/emergency_management.
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