Spring is here, summer is just around the corner

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jason Muscarella
  • 90th Civil Engineer Squadron Emergency Management Flight
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --  It seems, in Wyoming, winter will never end. 

Though that might seem to be the case, spring has indeed arrived, and summer is soon to follow. Wyoming can be vulnerable to various types of natural disasters this time of the year. 

The spring season usually brings warmer days and blooming flowers, but in Wyoming, wintry weather can arrive at a moment's notice. Keep in mind that we can receive snow up until the end of May. 

It is wise to maintain your winter survival equipment in your vehicle in case you get caught out in a storm. Your survival kit should include a shovel, windshield scraper and small broom, flashlight, battery powered radio, extra batteries, water, snack food, matches, extra hats, socks, mittens, first aid kit with pocket knife, necessary medications, blankets, tow chain or rope, road salt and sand, booster cables, emergency flares, and a fluorescent distress flag. 

Lastly, make sure you are attentive when driving on wet roads given that they may be icy. 

Warmer days will most likely bring heavy rainfall. Be aware of flooding. Cheyenne, in particular, has many areas that will flood easily. 

Being prepared for a flood not only helps keep your family safe, it can also help diminish potential flood damage and accelerate recovery efforts. 

This time of the year can also cause warm and cold air to mix, resulting in freak storms with tornadoes. If you are caught in a tornado's path, find low lying areas or find a room in your house or building that has limited windows or doors, preferably a bathroom. 

Every facility on base should have an in-place shelter. Get with the facility manager to find out where it is and what to do if you have to shelter in place. 

Wyoming is an extremely dry area susceptible to drought. The threat of wild land fires is very real; therefore, being sure to build fires away from trees and bushes is absolutely imperative. 

Always have a way to extinguish the fire quickly and completely. Under no circumstances should you ever leave a fire, even a cigarette, burning unattended. 

Spring can bring many natural disasters here in Wyoming. Be sure to stay out of harm's way and always remain prepared for the worst. As an emergency manager, listen when I say, "Plan for the worst, hope for the best."