AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — As spring approaches, the threat of severe weather increases in Alabama. Tornadoes, hail and high winds associated with strong thunderstorms can damage homes, businesses and farms. To help residents prepare for severe weather, Alabama is offering a sales tax holiday on certain items from Friday, Feb. 20 through Sunday, Feb. 22. 

Allie Logan, an assistant director of field operations for Alabama Extension at Auburn University, said this annual sales tax holiday is a good time to review or establish severe weather procedures. 

“Being prepared can save you time, energy and heartache,” said Logan, who also serves as a delegate to the multistate Extension Disaster Education Network. “The tax-free weekend helps people purchase supplies they need to prepare, but it’s also a good time to review severe weather plans. Make sure everybody in the house knows the plan. All family members should know where your preparedness kit is stored and the safest place in your home to ride out a tornado warning.”

Tax-Free Items and Preparedness Kits

The sales tax holiday applies to portable generators and power cords with a sales price less than $1,564. Additionally, numerous smaller items with a sales price of $94 or less are eligible. Those include certain types of batteries, cell phone chargers, flashlights, tarps, plastic drop cloths, bungee cords, duct tape, plywood, coolers, can openers, ice packs, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and gas cans. The full list of eligible items can be found on the Alabama Department of Revenue website at revenue.alabama.gov.

Logan suggests that people keep an emergency box with some of these items in their home’s safe space or beside an exterior door in case evacuation is necessary. She said an emergency box should include the following:

• First aid kit
• Flashlights
• Batteries, power banks and cell phone chargers
• Weather radio
• Helmets
• Sturdy shoes and warm socks
• Water
• Nonperishable food items
• Can opener
• List of medications needed regularly
• Copies of important documents
• Cash

“If you have a young child, make sure you have extra diapers and formula set aside in your safe place,” Logan said. “Also, think about activities that could keep your child entertained if the electricity goes out, like coloring books and crayons.”

Additionally, Logan advised creating similar emergency boxes to store in automobiles and at the office. Every six months, replace dead batteries, charge portable power banks and replace water and any expired food.

Logan said it is important to note that the tax-free holiday applies to state sales tax. County and municipal governments may also participate in waiving local taxes but are not required. For a list of participating counties and municipalities, visit revenue.alabama.gov.

Other Considerations

When severe weather is forecast, it is important to stay weather aware. 

“You need to have multiple options for receiving weather notifications,” Logan said. “Do not rely on outdoor sirens. Weather radios, cell phone apps and local TV stations are the most reliable sources for receiving updates on watches and warnings.” 

Logan said emergency plans should also take pets and neighbors into consideration.

“Have leashes or pet carriers ready in your safe space,” Logan said. “If you have to evacuate, double check with shelters and hotels to make sure they accept animals. Also, check on your friends and neighbors to make sure they have safe places to stay during storms. Share your plans with them so they know where to look for you in the event of an emergency.”

More Extension Resources 

Alabama Extension exists to provide impactful, relevant educational resources that help improve lives. 

“Our goal at Alabama Extension is to give people information that can help them make the best decisions for themselves and their families,” Logan said. “In Alabama, that definitely includes bringing awareness to severe weather threats. We may not be able to prepare for every kind of disaster, but taking some simple steps can help ensure your family stays safe during and after the storms.”

The Emergency Handbook from Alabama Extension offers additional tips and guidance for severe weather preparation and recovery. Topics covered include food safety during power outages and assessing damaged trees. Find that resource and others at aces.edu.