Dad's Quick Take
Know the basic response for the disasters common where you live: get low and interior for tornadoes, drop-cover-hold for earthquakes, move to high ground for floods, and stay warm and put for blizzards. Sign up for local emergency alerts so you get a warning.
The quick playbook
- Tornado — go to the lowest, most interior room (basement, bathroom); avoid windows.
- Earthquake — Drop, Cover, and Hold On under sturdy furniture; stay away from windows.
- Flood — move to higher ground; never drive or walk through floodwater (“turn around, don't drown”).
- Blizzard / cold — stay inside, keep warm, conserve heat, and avoid travel.
- Heat — stay hydrated, find AC, and never leave anyone in a parked car.
Get the alerts
Turn on emergency alerts on your phone and know your area's risks. A few minutes of warning is often all you need to get safe.
Common questions
What's the difference between a watch and a warning?
A watch means conditions are possible — be ready. A warning means it's happening or imminent — act now.