2019 had nearly 50 tornadoes, approaching a record. Typically, Ohio has an average of about 18-19 tornadoes per year. As of April 15th, 2020, Ohio had already hit by 14 tornadoes.

That is why during the severe weather season, it is important to prepare with an emergency kit for you and your household.

Here is a list of the basics that are recommended to include in your at home kit.

Make sure you have the following essentials stored in a backpack or storage tub. Keep your kit in an easy accessible spot in your house like a closet or even better in your basement. 

Talk to your family so everyone knows where the kit is stored.

Include the following:

-One gallon of water per person in your household

-Three day's worth of non-perishable food with a long shelf life

-Flashlight with extra batteries 

-First-Aid Kit

-Tissues, toilet paper, and paper towels

-Sleeping bag, blankets, and pillows

-Basic Tools

-Essential hygiene items

-Extra clothes per person

-Plastic cups, utensils and paper plates

-Books, cards and board games especially for kids

**KEY ITEM**
Portable weather radio

You may want to also include a portable charger for your cellphone. Extra packed pet food if you have pets. And keep important documents in mind.

Other great suggestions would be helmets in case of a tornado. 

Gather and prepare your emergency kit with your family so everyone feels prepared and knows what to do during a severe weather situation. Also discuss where to go, it is important to know where your 'safest' spot is in your household during an emergency. 

And as always have MULTIPLE ways to get weather alerts like cell phone, TV, weather radio, and lastly sirens. Don't rely on just one form, it is important to have back-ups! One common mistake is just relying on the sirens. Sirens are meant for primarily outdoor warnings instead of indoors.

Stay prepared and not scared! You can always rely on your Weather On The 1s experts for the latest weather alerts. Stay safe.