John Bell Missouri Department of Agriculture
I know the weather, at least in the United States, can vary greatly from North to South and East to West. Here in Missouri the cold weather usually occurs between December and February with some frigid days in late November and early March. The extreme heat begins around May or June and goes till August or September. Not to mention the drought, snowfall, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flooding. All that being said, it’s a good idea to use this NCWM Newsletter’s Safety Column to discuss the topic of Severe Weather. Here in Missouri, we are no stranger to heavy rain and flooding, high winds, lightning, hail, and tornadoes. When severe weather approaches, we need to be aware of the dangers and be prepared to act when alarms are activated. No matter where you are located in an office building, if an emergency warning system is activated, all personnel should get up and move to a “Storm Safe Area.” These areas are designated by safety professionals and are posted to direct you to a safe area away from flying glass and debris should a window break. If you work remotely then you should avoid windows, go to the lowest floor, small center room (like a bathroom or closet), under a stairwell, or in an interior hallway with no windows. Crouch as low as possible to the floor, facing down; and cover your head with your hands. I personally do not have any experience with hurricanes, but would advise evacuating when ordered and adhere to the following rules regarding rain and wind.
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