Safety tips for storm season

The 2025 storm season has already brought harsh winds, heavy rains, hail and tornadoes to south central Indiana and surrounding communities. Take the time to plan for future bad weather and better protect yourself and your loved ones.

“Sign up for your community’s warning system, which you can typically find on local government websites, and take these warnings seriously,” said Ethan Farmer, DO, IU Health Bloomington Emergency Medicine physician. “Creating and following emergency plans can help decrease your risk of injury and death.”

Step one for emergency plans is identifying safe shelter options in advance.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security encourages individuals to make a list of safe locations at home, at work and other places you frequent. A basement or cellar is preferred, but if that’s not available, individuals should go to the most interior room of their home.

“The room should be away from all exterior doors and windows, and shouldn’t be on an exterior wall,” said Dr. Farmer. “Individuals living in mobile homes should seek shelter in a sturdy building nearby.”

The doctor also shared the following tips for storm safety:

• Have battery-powered flashlights and a weather radio on hand in case the electricity goes out
• Have a way to keep needed medications cold or stored correctly
• Have backup oxygen tanks available if you use these devices
• Have a stocked first aid kit
• Don’t drive through flooded roads
• Identify and report any fallen power lines, but don’t approach them
• Report fallen trees, especially if they are in roadways

“Paying attention to authorities and the weather forecasters can also let you know when it’s safe to go back outside, particularly when deciding to travel,” said Dr. Farmer. “Don’t assume it’s safe just because the emergency sirens aren’t on.”

Learn more on the Monroe County Severe Weather Preparedness website.