It is easy to become complacent about the weather, but severe weather claims hundreds of lives each year.

From tornadoes and floods to lightning, high winds, extreme heat and cold, severe weather can cause destruction and power outages. Many people end up in dangerous situations because they think they can outrun or outsmart a storm, extreme temperatures or other hazardous conditions. Being prepared with supplies, a plan and safety knowledge can help protect you and your family.

Watch vs. warning

When severe weather is approaching, many people turn on the TV, check a weather app or go online for updates. It is important to know the difference between a watch and a warning.

A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather, such as a severe thunderstorm or tornado. Stay alert, monitor conditions and take precautionary steps, such as unplugging electronics and checking your emergency kit.

A warning means severe weather is occurring, is imminent or is indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately in the safest part of the building, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.

Follow these tips to stay safe

• Install a weather app and enable severe weather alerts.
• Remember that a warning means it is time to act.
• Have an evacuation plan for hazards such as floods or wildfires.
• Establish a family communication plan, including each person’s responsibilities and a meeting place in case you are separated.
• Keep emergency kits stocked and up to date. Include a first-aid kit, portable phone charger, flashlights, batteries, food, water and enough supplies to last at least three days.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a generator.
• Use a generator only outdoors in an open area, never in a garage, carport or other enclosed space.
• Keep portable generators at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents.

Know how to keep others safe

Storms can be unpredictable and can damage the power grid. Severe weather may also make utility equipment harder to access. During and after major weather events, line crews may be out restoring power and making repairs.

Everyone should do their part to help keep lineworkers and utility crews safe:

• Slow down and move over in work zones.
• Do not distract crews while they work.
• Direct service questions to your utility.
• Check your utility’s social media channels or text alerts for outage updates, if available.
• Never plug a generator into a wall outlet. Doing so can cause backfeed, which sends electricity from your home back onto power lines.

Stay alert during cleanup

• If the power is out, stay indoors unless you must leave to remain safe.
• Be alert for downed power lines that may be hidden by ice, snow, standing water or storm debris.
• Never approach a downed power line. Call 911, then keep others away.
• Do not trim trees or branches within 10 feet of an overhead power line.

Power outages, downed lines and generator misuse can create serious risks during and after severe weather. To learn more about keeping loved ones safe, visit SafeElectricity.org.