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Severe Weather <br />25 <br />What is severe weather? <br />Severe weather includes heavy thunderstorms, high winds, lightning, flooding, hail, snow and ice <br />storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes. <br />Advanced Warning: <br />Begin preparations immediately <br />It The senior employee will brief all staff to remain calm and stay away from windows <br />and doors. In a thunderstorm or lightning conditions, employees and visitors must not <br />operate electrical equipment or use the telephone. <br />III. If there is sufficient advanced warning, everyone should survey the surrounding <br />grounds and bring loose equipment and objects (trashcans, chairs, tables, etc.) inside the <br />building. <br />IV. Any items, which cannot be brought inside, should be secured to the ground or a fixed <br />object as best as possible. This will reduce the potential for flying objects to cause <br />injuries or property damage. <br />V. Do not subject yourself to potential injury just to secure equipment. Everyone must <br />go inside as soon as weather conditions make remaining outside hazardous to personnel. <br />VI. Remember: <br />A. A watch is when the storm is possible in the area. <br />B. A warning is when the storm has been sighted or indicated by weather radar in the <br />area. <br />Severe Weather Procedures <br />When a warning is issued by sirens or other means, seek inside shelter. <br />It If you are indoors, stay there. If necessary, take shelter under a desk, table, or in a <br />doorway. If you cannot get under something sturdy or stand in a doorway, move to the <br />lowest floor, get on your hands and knees and cover your head with your hands and arms. <br />III. If there are high waters from flooding, do not attempt to drive on roads that are <br />submerged or covered with water. If possible, take an alternative route upon leaving, or <br />wait until the water level drops before venturing outside. <br />21 <br />