As spring approaches, take time to understand and prepare for severe weather

As part of our Emergency Management Program, Methodist Health System participates in regionwide drills to prepare for situations such as thunderstorms and tornadoes. As spring nears, this is a great opportunity to review and practice our policy and procedures.

Regionwide tornado drills

This year, Methodist will be participating in regionwide tornado drills on Wednesday, March 27, at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.

During the drill:

• Staff members in non-patient care areas should shelter in the nearest safe location.
• Staff members in patient care areas are asked to participate by reviewing Methodist's policies and procedures.

Know your terms

Severe thunderstorm watch: Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms.

Severe thunderstorm warning: A severe thunderstorm with 1 inch or larger hail and/or winds over 58 mph is occurring or will soon occur.

Tornado watch: Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes.

Tornado warning: A tornado has been indicated by radar or sighted by spotters, or a tornado is imminent.

Actions to take

Severe thunderstorm watch

Monitor the situation and continue your normal work, but be aware of the potential for changing conditions.

Severe thunderstorm warning or tornado watch

Prepare: Work within your unit to identify movement priority, process and sheltering locations.

Package: Gather patient and staff items necessary to support movement with little notice.

Tornado warning

Protect: Take protective action such as sheltering in place in the nearest safe area (e.g., an interior hallway or lower level).

Preparedness at home

It's important to make sure that you, your family and your pets are prepared for severe weather at home. This includes having a plan for sheltering along with preparing an emergency kit with important supplies and documents.