Once again we are entering into another severe weather season for Iowa. It is imperative that we all educate ourselves and take the necessary precautions to enhance not only our own safety, but also that of others.

It is vital to understand there isn't a process to absolutely ensure that everyone will receive notification of extreme weather conditions in a timely manner. The best safety plan in any situation includes shared responsibility.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ensure that your notification information is updated on the University Hawk Alert System. The Hawk Alert is a campuswide notification system, employing text and voice messaging and email notifications. Additional information can be found at hawkalert.uiowa.edu.

The University of Iowa also has its own outdoor warning (siren) system. The system will be activated in conjunction with other sirens in the area to alert the public of impending severe weather. If you hear a siren or otherwise know a tornado warning is in effect, immediately take shelter. Do not be tempted to go outside and check conditions for yourself. Information on emergency communications can be found at police.uiowa.edu/stay-informed/emergency-communication.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), outdoor warning systems or sirens are intended primarily for people who are working, walking, or driving outside so they know to seek shelter immediately, preferably somewhere inside a building.

It is recommended to seek shelter in rooms and corridors in the innermost part of a building at the lowest level. It is understood that everyone may not have access to the lowest level of a particular building. Interior rooms or corridors on any level can serve as additional shelter options. If possible, stay clear of windows and corridors with windows, and attempt to avoid large freestanding expanses (auditoriums and cafeterias).

Remember, there is no guaranteed safe place during a tornado. However, it is important to seek shelter in the best location obtainable to help minimize your exposure.

During tornado season, if you are working indoors or at home, bear in mind that local radio and television stations are your best system of tornado warnings. Those stations will interrupt regular programming to broadcast much needed weather information along with instructions to seek shelter.

Be mindful of workmates, family, or friends who may be hearing impaired and unable to hear an alarm or of those who may not be aware of tornado warnings because they are sleeping, watching cable TV or a DVD, or listening to music.

Be proactive—keep informed on current weather conditions

The National Weather Service provides a website ( www.crh.noaa.gov/dvn) where you can receive weather information for this area along with other detailed weather related information. Simply enter the city and state or zip code.

We encourage people in areas where they have a problem hearing outside sirens to invest in a weather radio or just an ordinary inexpensive portable radio and keep it on when severe weather conditions exist. Before purchasing a weather radio, make certain to do some research. There are several models and price ranges to choose from.

During the tornado season, if you are teaching, hosting, or managing any group of people, we encourage you to add checking the forecast to your preparation list and to announce emergency procedures at the start of your meetings. We encourage everyone to periodically check the weather forecast during the severe weather season.

• If you know of others in the building, please inform them if you are aware of severe weather warnings. It can’t be emphasized enough: spread the word.
• Never pull a fire alarm during a tornado warning if there is no fire. People will exit the building and expose themselves to severe weather.

You can receive an e-mail notification of severe weather directly from KCRG-TV in Cedar Rapids. This service is offered free of charge. Because this service is offered by a commercial entity, please note that by signing up you will receive emails about opportunities to purchase various related products such as their enhanced "Premium Weather" notification service. You are under no obligation to purchase those products, but please read the instructions carefully.

If you are interested in the free severe weather alert service, visit www.kcrg.com/ppflogos and follow the instructions.

I am highlighting KCRG Pinpoint Futurecast because it is local, free of charge, and requires very little personal information. Please be advised there may be other comparable severe weather notification services, such as Weather Bug or Emergency Email, that are available to you. You are free to choose the service that fits your needs. Be aware that some services may require a fee and extensive personal information; read instructions carefully and use caution in your selections.

Review the tornado section of the UI Critical Incident Management Plan (CIMP) for general information.

For additional information on tornadoes, you can visit the following websites:

• Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA)
• American Red Cross
• National Weather Service's FAQ on Tornadoes

Remember, we all need to remain watchful for future forecasts and look for opportunities to enhance our own safety as well as others in the UI/Iowa City community.