Ohio Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week: Prepare Before A Storm Hits

For members of the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness (OCSWA), the coming of spring signals Ohio Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week, March 19-25.

The Ohio Insurance Institute (OII) is one of the 16 agencies and organizations dedicated to educating Ohioans about the natural disasters that typically affect the Buckeye state. Part of this includes how to plan and prepare for severe weather and home emergencies before they happen.

See below for resources from our members and industry partners.

Weather Safety Resources For Teachers

OII recently updated its trio of weather safety resources to help teachers, students and their families prepare for severe weather common to Ohio in the months ahead. View our download-ready materials, including our Severe Weather Safety Teacher’s Guide loaded with updated stats, resources and classroom activities for all grade levels.

Teachers are encouraged have their students in grades 1–6 enter Ohio’s Severe Weather Awareness Poster Contest by April 17. The annual contest is aimed at educating Ohio’s youth on the importance of severe weather safety and preparedness. Contest details and info links are posted on our website.

For Ohioans

OCSWA (@OHWxAwareness) members suggest the following spring weather preparedness tips:

Know Ohio’s weather hazards: Brush up on weather hazards that typically occur in the months ahead including tornadoes, thunderstorms, floods and even snowstorms through early spring. Visit OCSWA for weather safety and preparedness resources.
Know the difference between a weather watch and warning: Discuss the difference between a weather watch and warning with family members. For example: A tornado watch means a tornado could occur based on weather conditions. A tornado warning means that a tornado has been cited in the area, signaling the need to seek shelter immediately. Many counties have outdoor warning sirens that sound during severe storm and tornado warnings. During storm watches or warnings, remain on alert through NOAA weather radio, local TV and radio, or weather apps.
Be aware of flood risk and hazards: Did you know that six inches of moving water can knock over an adult? Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pickups. If you encounter a flooded area, turn around and head in the other direction. Too many deaths occur from attempts to drive (or walk) through flooded roadways.
If you encounter rising floodwaters around your vehicle: If the water is not moving, abandon your vehicle and move to higher ground. If the water is moving, stay in your car.
Practice tornado drills and emergency plans: Ohio counties will test their outdoor sirens during the statewide tornado drill on Wednesday, March 22 at 9:50 am. Schools, businesses and households are encouraged to practice their tornado drills and emergency plans. Visit OCSWA’s tornado facts & safety tips for more.