Have you secured your outdoor furniture? Safety tips for high wind gusts

If you lost any of your patio furniture the last time it was windy, that could happen again today.

Wind gusts of up to 40 mph are predicted this afternoon, so now’s the time to prepare. Here’s a look at some of the things the National Weather Service recommends during high winds.

Securing your property during high winds

NWS suggests checking to be sure that your property is secure before a storm. That includes bringing in lawn furniture, garbage cans or other objects that the wind could move, as they could cause damage or injury.

Also, according to NWS, you should remove items like dead trees and overhanging branches; and “shutter windows securely and brace outside doors.

What to do if you’re caught outside during high winds

If you’re outside when high wind gusts hit, take cover next to a building or shelter, NWS recommends. Additional tips include:

• Stay clear of roads and train tracks; winds could blow you into a vehicle’s path.

• Use handrails if they’re available. Avoid elevated areas.

• Watch out for flying debris.

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What to do if you’re driving during high winds

Here’s what NWS recommends to drivers:

• Keep both hands on the wheel.

• Keep a safe distance from other cars.

• If you’re in a truck, van or SUV or towing a trailer, take extra care; high-profile vehicles could be pushed or flipped by wind gusts.

• If safe driving isn’t possible due to the severity of the winds, stop on the shoulder away from trees or anything that could fall onto the vehicle and turn on hazard lights.

What to do if there’s a downed power line

In general, most people know to stay away from power lines. If they’re downed by winds, it’s even more dangerous. If you come across one, NWS recommends:

• Call local utilities and the police.

• Don’t try to free lines or remove debris yourself.

• Avoid touching anything that’s touching the downed lines. Puddles or snow can conduct electricity.

• If someone is in direct contact with the power line, don’t try to touch them. Call 911.

• If a line falls on your vehicle, stay inside and do not touch the metal frame. “Honk your horn, roll down the window and warn anyone who may approach of the danger,” NWS writes. “To exit, open the door, but do not step out. Jump, without touching any of the metal portions of the car’s exterior, to safe ground and get quickly away.”

Louisville weather forecast: High wind gusts predicted

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This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: High wind gusts expected in Louisville. How to stay safe