Spring brings flowers, but it also brings showers. In fact, spring is generally considered the season with the most severe weather. And regardless of where you’re located in the country, you are susceptible to some form of severe weather. Whether it’s mudslides in California, hail and sleet in Massachusetts, or tornados in Oklahoma, severe weather comes in some form to all of us. From a late-season blizzard to a peak-season thunderstorm, make sure you're prepared for whatever spring brings!

We understand that preparing for severe weather can be overwhelming, so we wanted to help out! Use our checklist to help prep for potential wild weather this season.

• Know the difference between a watch and a warning

A tornado watch means a tornado is possible, so be prepared. A tornado warning means a tornado is about to happen, so take shelter immediately. This applies across the board for floods, thunderstorms, etc.

• Have a plan

Many survivors of natural disasters cite having a plan to saving their lives. Have a plan for you and your family in the event of severe weather in your area. Have a plan if you are home, have a plan for when you are at work/your children are at school, etc. Know where the safe parts are in your home, or where you will go to seek shelter, and practice drills with your family regularly.

• Never drive through flood waters

Most flood deaths happen to folks attempting to drive in/through flood waters. Even if the water is still at the top, there's no telling if there are currents underneath or how deep the water is. What could look like a large puddle could end up engulfing your whole vehicle. If you see flood waters on the road, turn around!

• Have a kit

Make sure you have an emergency kit on hand with the following in it:

o   Three-day supply of non-perishable food and water — one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes

o   Battery-powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)

o   Flashlight and extra batteries

o   First aid kit, medications, and medical items

o   Copies of all important documents (proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)

• Have proper insurance

Homeowners insurance typically covers most severe weather damage, but not all. Standard homeowners insurance will usually cover hail, sleet, ice, snow, wind, and lightning damage. However, when it comes to flood or earthquake damage you will need to make sure you have specific policies to cover those. Look over your current policies to see what is covered and what is not, and make changes to prepare for future severe weather. Remember, it takes 30 days for flood insurance to kick in, so, if needed, don't wait to update your policies!

Regardless of what spring brings weather-wise, being prepared for the worst can be the difference between losing not only the assets you’ve worked hard to build, but your life as well. Beyond being prepared, with a plan in place you’ll be able to enjoy spring’s pleasant weather more knowing you’re ready in case it turns severe.

Securities offered through The O.N. Equity Sales Company, Member FINRA/SIPC, One Financial Way Cincinnati, Ohio 45242 (513) 794-6794. Investment Advisory services offered through O.N. Investment Management Company.

This content, provided by a third-party resource, is believed to be accurate information. This information does not constitute legal or tax advice. Individuals should consult with an attorney or professional specializing in the fields of legal, tax, or accounting regarding the applicability of this information to their situations. The third-party resource is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state, or SEC-registered investment advisor firm. The material provided is for educational purposes only. Consulting with your financial advisor and tax professional is recommended to understand the specific implications of your situation.