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Storm Planning to Avoid Weather Anxiety | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to help you recover.
The dog is pacing, the kids are asking a million questions and the storm clouds are getting closer and closer as thunder booms. If this sounds like a common scene at your house, it might be hard to know how to even begin preparing for severe weather.
In our community, most conversations about severe weather happen in the winter as we face strong winds, heavy snow and freezing temperatures. Strong thunderstorms and tornadoes can’t be ruled out, though, which means we need to be prepared for anything.
When we are prepared, we can respond appropriately and avoid weather anxiety.
In order to be prepared, we need to know what to look and listen for. Spend some time outside with the kids looking at the clouds. Let them tell you what shapes they see, and while they do, talk to them about what dark, blue-black or green clouds can mean. Make sure they know that the sound of thunder means lightning is nearby and that they need to seek shelter. Tell them if they ever see clouds spinning to head indoors quickly.
Getting to know the clouds is a great start to better understanding weather. Further teach your kids about storms by talking about sirens and weather warnings. If you can hear a siren from your house, find out the next time it will be tested and take the kids outside to hear it. Make a game out of it and see who can reach your safe space fastest when the siren goes off.
If you don’t already have one, start creating a storm emergency plan with your family. It should include where to go and what kind of emergency supplies you should have in different situations.
For thunderstorms, strong winds and tornadoes, a low lying room is the best place to stay. Show the kids the best spot in your house, and then let them play there. Set up some comfort items like blankets and books to make the space feel calm. A warm spot in your house might be ideal during a winter storm, especially if the power is out long-term.
You may already have an emergency kit for winter storms, but if you don’t, let the kids help you prepare one. Gift them with their own fun flashlight, and add in plenty of extra batteries. Snacks and water are another fun item your kids can help you pack away.
Update your kit seasonally, ensuring you have plenty of supplies for storms in both warm and cold weather. This is especially important in the winter as you will need to include heating fuel, candles and other ways to stay warm.
Let the kids add in some games and books that don’t require batteries or electricity. Card games and board games can help pass a lot of time and keep everyone’s anxiety lowered.
Weather-related fears and anxieties are common for people of all ages, but they can be particularly challenging for children to deal with. Make your kids feel safe at home by educating them as much as you can about weather, but make sure they also understand that extreme damage isn’t a regular occurrence during storms. Most homes will only see minor issues to their roof, siding and property in the majority of severe weather situations.
The more you can do to keep your family calm, the easier it will be to ride out every storm with confidence.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.