The variability of the weather along the mid Atlantic coast is enough to send some residents inside to avoid it considering that there's always the danger of things turning into an emergency. To help reduce the stress of living in an area with the potential for extreme weather events, you should make sure everyone in your family knows the emergency procedures for coping with them. The following are outlines of what you should do in various weather emergencies.

Tornado

Tornados are the most destructive weather force on earth, and they can be common in certain parts of the mid Atlantic coast from April to September. Any time there are thunderstorms in your area, you should keep one eye on the TV or one ear on the radio. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, immediately retire to your underground shelter or basement. If your home doesn't have one, go to a windowless interior bathroom and lay in the tub with a mattress on top of you. Set up your smartphone to get weather alerts from The Weather Network.

Hurricane

Whether you've bought land in Main or a cottage on the Florida coast, there's always the possibility of a hurricane visiting your area between the beginning of June and the end of November. Hurricanes are massive, slow moving storms, so keep an eye on the weather news when one is prowling the Atlantic. If it heads for your area, heed evacuation warnings and leave. If you cannot, stay inside. Board or tape up windows and retreat to interior rooms or basements to avoid debris.

Flood

Floods are often caused by the storm surges associated with hurricanes but can also be caused by extremely harsh spring melting seasons swelling local rivers. If your property is located in a lowland or a former swamp or wetlands, there's a good chance your basement will flood. A pump can ward off the water, but if the situation becomes bad enough that your home risks being carried away, obey evacuation orders and never try to drive or walk through the flood waters. If there has been a recent flood or storm and your home has water damage, you should contact a company to get restoration complete and your family back where it should be. If they do not service your area, they will tell you another company that can help you.

Blizzard

The weather can be enjoyable in the summer for many States and Provinces, but the winter can be an entirely different story. Raging winds and drifting piles of snow can trap you in your home in the event of a blizzard. When conditions are bad, stay off the roads. Prepare an emergency kit with enough food and supplies to sustain you in a powerless house for 72 hours, and never use a gas stove in an attempt to heat your home.

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