FORT RUCKER, Ala. (May 28, 2013) - The weather can change from day to day, and sometimes hour to hour. How Soldiers, Families and civilians live with the weather is up to them.
The National Weather Service reports that in 2011, 1,096 people died and 8,830 were injured from weather events in the United States. Property damage approached $24 billion.
"An emergency can happen any place or time," said Janet Frotescher, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. "Make sure you know the threats that can occur in your area, such as tornadoes, earthquakes, floods and hurricanes. Stay up-to-date on the weather forecast, practice drills with your family and prepare an emergency kit to keep you and your loved ones safe."
Every state in the United States has experienced some form of severe weather, so everyone is exposed to risk. Check the forecast regularly and visit www.ready.gov/severeweather to learn more about preparing for potentially severe conditions.
Other commonsense measures include preparing a communication plan to share with your Family and keeping important papers and valuables in a safe place.
Weather radios are an inexpensive and easy way to stay informed, even if the power goes out. Smartphone apps also connect users to sources that provide information and updates. While a wailing radio alarm or siren isn't what you want to hear in the middle of the night, the information they provide helps keep you and your Family as safe as possible during bad weather.
Related Links:
Emergency preparedness guidance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center homepage
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