The first part of being prepared for severe weather is being aware of the weather forecast and potential future threats. You can access any of the Kentucky National Weather Service Offices here for the latest forecasts. You can also stay aware by listening to local radio or television stations for weather information. Many websites have current forecast information as well. Pick two or three of these and check them at least twice daily - more often if hazardous weather is in the forecast.

Some other items:

• Check your emergency kit
  If you have a severe weather safety kit and/or NOAA All-Hazards Radio, you should make sure that everything has fresh batteries that work.  You should check your radio, flashlight, etc., because they may become necessary later in the day.  Make sure your cell phone is fully charged in case you lose power.  If you don't have a severe weather safety kit, here are some suggestions to get you started.
  
  

• Have at least two ways of getting severe weather alerts
  Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
  If your community has sirens, then become familiar with the warning tones mean and where to get more information when sirens sound.
  Make sure you have a NOAA Weather-Alert Radio with fresh batteries. A NOAA Weather Radio will alert you to weather advisories, watches and warnings, even if your electrical power goes out. If you don't have one, they're easy to find and purchase.
  
  

• Create a Communications Plan:
  Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information. Keep your cell phone charged during times when severe weather may happen and keep a fully-charged backup battery in your kit. Remember that while voice calls may not go through during an emergency, text messages will. Use text messaging to tell friends and family that you're OK.

• Make a pet emegency plan.
  Pets are part of the family too.  Dogs and cats may become afraid and skittish during severe weather events. They may even try to escape through an open door. Consider putting pets in a crate or other contained area in your home until the severe weather threat has passed. If you have to evacuate, take your pets with you. Do not leave 

• Identify your home and business "Weather Safe Place"
  Pick a safe room in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Remember that NO MOBILE HOME IS SAFE SHELTER DURING SEVERE WEATHER. Identify a structure or shelter nearby where you and family members can go during severe weather. For a business, many already have restrooms, storerooms or stairwells that are identified as storm shelters.