It is easy to become complacent about the weather, but severe weather claims hundreds of lives each year.

From tornadoes and floods to lightning, high winds, extreme heat and cold, severe weather can cause destruction and power outages. Many people end up in dangerous situations because they think they can outrun or outsmart a storm, extreme temperatures or other hazardous conditions. Be prepared with supplies, a plan and safety knowledge to help protect you and your family.

Watch vs. warning

It is important to know the difference between a watch and a warning.

A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather, such as a severe thunderstorm or tornado. Stay alert, monitor conditions and take precautionary steps, such as unplugging electronics and checking your emergency kit.

A warning means severe weather is occurring, is imminent or is indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately in the safest part of the building, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.

Follow these tips to stay safe

• Install a weather app and enable severe weather alerts.
• Remember that a warning means it is time to act.
• Have an evacuation plan for hazards such as floods or wildfires.
• Establish a family communication plan, including a meeting place in case you are separated.
• Keep emergency kits stocked with a first-aid kit, portable phone charger, flashlights, batteries, food, water and enough supplies to last at least 3 days.

Know how to keep others safe

Storms can be unpredictable and can damage the power grid. Severe weather may also make utility equipment harder to access. During and after major weather events, line crews may be out restoring power and making repairs. Do your part to help keep lineworkers and utility crews safe:

• Slow down and move over in work zones.
• Do not distract crews while they work. Direct service questions to your utility.
• Check your utility’s social media channels or text alerts for outage updates.
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Stay alert during cleanup

• If the power is out, stay indoors unless you must leave to remain safe.
• Be alert for downed power lines that may be hidden by ice, snow, standing water, tree branches or storm debris.
• Never approach a downed power line. Call 911, then keep others away.

Power outages and generator safety

• Never plug a generator into a wall outlet. Doing so can cause backfeed, sending electricity from your home back onto power lines.
• Never use a generator indoors or in partially enclosed spaces such as garages, porches, or near open windows and doors. Place it at least 20 feet away from your home to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Keep the generator dry by placing it on a tarp or under a canopy, and follow all manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. This can inadvertently energize power lines and pose a lethal risk to you, neighbors and utility workers.

Stay informed, stay alert, and share this information to help protect your family and community during severe weather events.