The first hour
- Go inside a building or a hard-topped car with windows up.
- Stay away from windows during hail and strong wind.
- Avoid corded phones, plumbing and electrical equipment during lightning.
- If outdoors with no shelter, get away from open fields, hilltops, water and tall lone trees.
The first day
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back out.
- Watch for downed trees and power lines. Treat every line as live.
- Check for roof and car damage from hail.
The first week and beyond
- Photograph damage for insurance.
- Trim weak tree limbs.
Get ready now: checklist
Your checks save on this phone.
Common mistakes
- Staying outside to finish a game or task.
- Sheltering under a tree.
- Touching downed lines.
Keeping kids calm
- Count from flash to thunder to explain distance (5 seconds is about 1 mile).
- Teach 'when thunder roars, go indoors.'
Gear that helps
- Weather radio: my pick, Midland ER310
- Surge protectors
- Car hail cover
- Flashlight: my pick, GearLight S1000 Rechargeable LED Flashlight, 2 Pack
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