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Red Cross officials urge residents to prepare for risk of severe weather

According to the Red Cross, people should pack a go-kit with essential items in case severe weather strikes.

TOLEDO, Ohio — On the days when our meteorologists know in advance there's a threat of severe weather, residents may want to have a game-plan ready.

Representatives of the American Red Cross suggest packing a go-kit. Those kits should include essentials like a flashlight, batteries, water and non-perishable food. 

Rachel Hepner-Zawodny is the executive director of the northwest Ohio chapter of the American Red Cross. She said that kits like these can be extremely helpful when severe weather hits.

"We don't know when a tornado is going to strike, but if we know there's going to be some severe weather in the area, just make that kit ahead of time. Put it next to your bed and if you need it, it's right there," Hepner-Zawodny said.

Red Cross officials also said to pack items you know you'll personally need; things like contact lens solution and medication. If you have babies, pack diapers and formula. You should also remember to pack food for pets if you have them. 

One item you might not think about, but you'd want to have in a natural disaster, are shoes with a heavy sole.

"You might have to walk on, you know, nails and you know, debris," Hepner-Zawodny said.

Red Cross representatives also recommend having a radio. The Red Cross sells one that takes batteries and can be charged with a crank or a solar panel. The radio also includes a flashlight and phone charger.

Most importantly, be weather aware. Download the First Alert Weather App to receive alerts when there are watches and warnings, especially those that come while you're asleep. 

"The alert notification that they do outside, sometimes you're not going to hear, but most people sleep with their phone next to them now," Hepner-Zawodny said.

Red Cross officials also urge everyone to check on their elderly neighbors, especially if they are hearing impaired.

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