With this winter’s severe weather — more snow, sleet, ice and freezing rain than normal — easing as spring approaches, many people might be letting down their guard. Be advised that although spring brings warmer temperatures, it also brings its own weather-related dangers.

That’s why the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warns people to prepare for some of America’s wildest weather.

“Tornadoes, floods, thunderstorm winds, hail, lightning, heat, wildfires, rip currents and tsunamis — spring is three months of danger that can imperil the unprepared. It roars in like a lion and continues to roar across the United States throughout March, April and May,” reads NOAA’s Weather-ready Nation website — http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/spring_safety.html#.VP8hhsa5Zdg. “Spring is a time of transition, when late-season snowstorms can impact the East Coast and the Northern Plains, thunderstorms rip across the South and Midwest, rivers overflow their banks and heat waves begin in the Southwest. And there’s one hazard that can strike the coasts at any time: tsunamis.”

Beaufort County and much, if not all, of eastern North Carolina knows about the dangers that spring weather can bring. The tornadoes that ripped through the region last spring are evidence of those dangers to lives and property.

Preparation is a key to surviving such wild weather, but it is no guarantee of survival. Still, it’s better to be properly prepared than just taking one’s chances with spring weather.

NOAA suggests taking the following actions:

• You may have only minutes to find shelter before a tornado strikes. Practice a family tornado drill at least once a year.

• Whether driving or walking, any time you come to a flooded road, Turn Around Don’t Drown^®.

• Check to see if officials in charge of sports have a written lightning safety plan.

• Extreme heat comes early to the South and Southwest. During a heat wave, reschedule strenuous outdoor activities for the coolest time of the day.

• If you live near wildland areas, make sure you home is firewise and fire-safe.

• This spring break, avoid rip currents by checking the local beach forecast and talking to the lifeguard.

• If you live, work or play on the coast, learn about tsunami safety.

Preparation is doing something, not thinking about it. Preparation helps save lives, maybe your life.

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