NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (North Platte Post) – The NOAA and FEMA have announced that April 22nd through 28th, 2012 is National Severe Weather Preparedness Week. To increase awareness of the severe weather that affects us all, they have announced their Be a Force of Nature pledge campaign.
The following steps are just a few of the ways that you can be better prepared:

• Know Your Risk: The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly and sign up for localized alerts from emergency management officials. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.
• Take Action: Be a Force of Nature by taking the pledge to prepare at Ready.gov. When you pledge to prepare, you will take the first step to making sure that you and your family are prepared for severe weather. This includes developing a family communications plan, putting an emergency kit together, keeping important papers and valuables in a safe place, and getting involved. Visit Ready.gov/severeweather for more on family preparedness for severe weather.
• Be an Example: Once you have taken action and pledged, share your story with your family and friends. Create a YouTube video, post your story on Facebook, or send a tweet. Post the Be a Force of Nature widget on your social media profiles.

Here in west central Nebraska, we have already had our first few rounds of severe weather. By being better informed, you can make sure you and your family stay safe during the peak severe weather season ahead!