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Arkansas officials explain the best ways to prepare for severe weather

Our meteorologists at THV11 are expecting the potential of hurricane-force winds throughout the night, so having a plan is crucial.

PULASKI COUNTY, ARKANSAS, Ark. — From the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office to the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, officials are warning people to be prepared Friday night as severe weather pushes through.

"We have reserves, we have deputies who are prepared, who are on standby,” said Eric Higgins, Pulaski Co. Sheriff.

For the first time, the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office issued a Weather Aware Day Friday in hopes you will join them and get prepared before the storms roll through.

"It's just a reminder for people to take it seriously when the National Weather Service reports severe weather is potential,” said Sheriff Higgins.

Our meteorologists at THV11 are expecting the potential of hurricane-force winds throughout the night, so having a plan is crucial.

"Communicate that plan with your family members or anyone else that lives in your home,” said Melody Daniel, spokesperson for ADEM. “You need to identify the safest place in your home if there is a tornado or a high-wind event."

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management said that safe place is most likely found on the lowest level of your home and the most central location.

It's even more important to keep your phones or weather radios on so you don't miss alerts.

"Since these storms are expected to roll in overnight, go ahead and watch your trusted local forecast, the meteorologists -- those are the experts and that's where you are going to get your most up-to-date weather,” said Daniel.

Lastly, it's important to have an emergency kit on standby in case you get caught up in storm damage.

"The things you are going to want to have in there are a flashlight, some extra batteries, water, snacks. For nonperishable items, make sure to have a can-opener,” said Daniel. “If your power goes out, you are going to have to have a way to open that can manually."

Some other short-term supplies to include in an emergency kit are a portable phone charger, light snacks, and shoes.

Keeping your shoes close by will come in handy if your home is damaged and you have to walk around or near broken glass or nails.

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