FAIRBURY, Neb. -- Severe weather is a constant threat during the spring and summer months in southeast Nebraska. 

As Emergency Manager of Jefferson and Saline Counties, John McKee has seen his fair share of severe storms, including tornadoes. 

One thing he stresses, never go outside to try and see the storm for yourself. 

“Go to the basement, because I guarantee you there will be somebody who will have pictures that you can go online and see it,” McKee said. “We have storm chasers out there.”

In your basement or shelter, McKee recommends some essential items. 

“One of many things recommended to take with you or have in your tornado shelter is a hard hat, football helmet, kids football helmet, a whistle, some water, some things to get by, because you might be down there for hours before our folks are able to get to you,” McKee said.

But what if you don’t have a basement? 

“Majority of the time, the bathroom is the center room of your home,” McKee said. “The center part and that’s where you want to be. Maybe you’ve got a neighbor that’s got a basement that you can go to and have a few moments to get there.”

Fairbury has outdoor warning sirens by Walmart, behind the Extension Office downtown, by the 47 Building, Crystal Springs Campground, and at the Union Bank in Fairbury. 

Although there are so many sirens, they can’t totally be heard from inside.

“Again, don’t totally depend on sirens to alert you to a tornado or a weather event,” McKee said.

McKee recommends getting a weather alert radio, which alerts you about severe storms, tornadoes and more.