Knowing what you and your family should do during a severe thunderstorm or tornado is something to consider this week as it is Severe Weather Awareness Week.

Washington County Emergency Management Coordinator Marissa Reisen says people should be thinking about and planning for what is in their emergency kits both at home and in their vehicle, where family members will meet, and how you’re going to communicate with each other. She also recommends using text messages to communicate after a major event, because phone lines are often flooded with calls. A person of contact who lives out of the area, like extended family, can also be helpful in relaying information among family members. For more information about preparedness and severe weather listen to the full interview with Reisen at KCIIRadio.com.