Are you severe weather ready?

When severe weather hits your area, being prepared is key. Here are some easy-to-follow safety tips to keep you and your family safe should nature’s worst arrive.

• Never take baths or showers during lightning and thunderstorms.
• Always avoid using corded phones during lightning and thunderstorms.
• Lost power? Be sure to turn off appliances but leave one light switch on. This will ensure you know when power is restored.
• Keep at least half a tank of gas in your car.
• In case of an extended power outage, always have a safe place to go.
• ALWAYS avoid downed power lines. If you see one, call LG&E at 502-589-1444 and press 1-1-2 or KU/ODP at 800-981-0600 and press 1-1

Keeping an emergency kit ready is also a severe weather must-do. Basic items for your kit should include:

• An up-to-date first-aid kit plus any required prescription medications.
• Flashlights
• A battery-operated radio, like a NOAA Weather Radio, which allows you to receive weather warnings.
• Extra batteries.
• A cell phone battery backup or power bank.
• Water and nonperishable food.

For more severe weather safety tips and information, visit weather.gov today.