When severe weather is expected, you need to know how to stay safe. Now is the time to make sure you and your family are prepared.

Here’s a quick checklist to help you get ready before storms move in:

1. Know where you’ll go

• Identify your safest place – lowest level, interior room, away from windows

• Make sure it’s clear and accessible

• Talk through the plan with your family

2. Don’t rely on sirens alone

• You may not hear outdoor warning sirens, especially overnight

• Follow reputable meteorologists

• Have multiple ways to receive alerts

3. Set up emergency alerts

• Download the DR Messenger app, as recommended by the Covington-Tipton County Emergency Management Association

• Use code TIPTONCOWEATHER to enroll in local alerts

• Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your phone

4. Prepare your safe space

• Put shoes, helmets and a flashlight in your shelter area

• Keep a fully charged phone nearby

• Have a way to monitor weather conditions

5. Charge up now

• Charge phones, portable chargers and backup batteries

• Consider charging weather radios or other devices

6. Build a simple “go kit” – just in case!

• Medications

• IDs and important documents (or photos of them)

• Water and snacks

• Flashlight and batteries

7. When a warning is issued

• Go to your safe place immediately – do not wait to see the storm

• Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary

• If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdier shelter ahead of time

• Paper Folds has compiled a list of tornado shelters and safe spaces available in Tipton County

8. After the storm passes

• Watch for downed power lines and debris

• Check on neighbors, especially elderly residents

• Continue monitoring for additional warnings