Storm safety tips for severe weather

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – The Cape Girardeau Fire Department wants to help you be safe in your home.

With the severe thunderstorms in the area, now is a good time for a reminder.

‘We’ve got major thunderstorms coming through if you turn off major appliances and things like that,” said Fire Crewman Kyle Litchfield.

He says it’s a good idea to make sure any and all electrical appliances are unplugged or turned off during a severe storm to prevent possible fires.

“During stormy weather such as the weather like we’re having we’ve got thunderstorms and weather like that coming through, always be aware of where your electric service comes in through your home, does it come in through the underground or does it come in through an overhead power line.”

Fire Marshall Drew St. John says that getting to a safe spot in your home is the best plan when it comes to your safety, “Go ahead and stay in your homes if the weather gets really bad when the warning starts coming out, specially tornado warnings, we advise people get to the center of your house, get to the lowest point in your house, if you have a basement, go there.”

Cape Girardeau Fire Department cautions that with fallen trees, often comes fallen power lines. They warn to stay away from them and call 911.