With the arrival of spring, emergency response experts across the region are reminding people to stay safe during severe weather events. Executive Director Riva Brown, Ph.D., leads the American Red Cross Greater Arkansas Chapter.
As Little Rock Public Radio reports, Dr. Brown encourages people to make plans before severe weather hits, which includes things like how to stay connected during extreme circumstances. “They need to make sure that they have backup batteries and a way to charge their cellphone and also a battery-powered radio because in the instance that the electricity goes out they no longer have internet connection.”
Brown continued, “That battery-powered radio will help them keep up with what’s going on with the news and then they can monitor weather conditions.” Brown says people should also prepare non-perishable food and water supplies for each member of their household.
She also encourages people to coordinate plans with their neighbors. “So it would be wonderful if the community’s already had their own resiliency plan where, if something happens the neighbor knows that they can go to this church, this community organization, this civic group, to get assistance from within the community.”
Brown also recommends that people download the Red Cross’ Emergency Severe Weather App, which notifies users of severe weather alerts and can help find nearby shelters and resources. It’s available on android and apple devices.
