HIGH WINDS Before High Winds • Survey your property. Take note of materials stored, placed or used, which could become missiles and destroy other structures or be destroyed. Devise methods of securing these items where they will still be accessible for day-today needs. • Keep tall trees properly pruned away from power lines. • Keep radio and/or TV on and monitor for wind advisories. • If possible, board up, tape or shutter all windows, but leave some ventilation. • Store water in case water service is interrupted. • Have a supply of flashlights, spare batteries, candles, first aid equipment, medicines, etc., available for use. • Have plastic sheeting available in case roof is damaged and it begins to rain. • Secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, tools, etc. • Take pictures of the house/yard, and inside possessions for possible insurance purposes. During High Winds • Take shelter in hallways and closets; avoid windows. • If outside, take shelter from flying debris. After Winds Subside • Inspect your home for structural and roof damage. • Check all utilities and power lines for damage and proper operation. • Monitor radio and TV for instructions from local leaders. Because of its varied terrain and climate, Utah can experience a variety of severe weather conditions. In a typical year, Utah can experience everything from blizzards to tornadoes. Winter snowstorms can knock out power and make for slick and icy driving conditions. Avalanches and lightning strikes have claimed the lives of many outdoor adventurers. Flash-flooding has caused damage to several areas of the state. Utah has even seen a number of tornadoes, the most notable cutting a swath through the middle of downtown Salt Lake City. Dense fog has also enveloped parts of the state, leading to dangerous conditions both on the ground and in the air. Windstorms have also caused extensive damage in parts of the state. 28 THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHTNING Protect Yourself • Get inside a home or large building when a storm approaches. Stay indoors and don't venture outside unless absolutely necessary. • Stay away from open doors, windows, fireplaces, radiators, stoves, metal pipes, sinks and appliances. • Do not use electrical appliances. • Use telephone for emergencies only. If you are outside, with no time to reach a safe building or vehicle, follow these rules: • Do not stand under a natural lightning rod such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area. • In a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. • In open areas, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods. • Do not stand on a hilltop, in an open field, on the beach or in a boat on the water. • Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas. • Get out of the water and off small boats. • Get away from anything metal - tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs and bicycles, camping chairs, etc. • Stay away from wire fences, clothes lines, metal pipes, rails, exposed sheds or anything that is high and could conduct electricity. Some of these items could carry electricity to you from some distance away. • When you feel an electrical charge - if you hair stands on end or your skin tingles - squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. DO NOT LIE FLAT ON THE GROUND. Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall. 29-