State agencies promote awareness of severe storm risks

(AP) – The Maryland Emergency Management Agency is advising residents to become familiar with weather warnings and safety tips for surviving severe thunderstorms.

The agency said in a statement Monday that preparation and common sense are the keys to staying safe in a storm.

Agency officials say you should never enter an area where water is flowing over a road and you can’t see the pavement.

In the event of a severe thunderstorm warning, they say you should get to a sturdy shelter, stay indoors and away from windows.

If a tornado warning is issued, or if you see a tornado, get inside and go to the lowest floor.

The agency says that if you hear thunder, you could be struck by lightning, so get indoors or inside a vehicle, if possible.