Northern Michigan is no stranger to severe weather... and even though last year was relatively quiet, the National Weather Service is making sure the public is prepared for the worst.

We're still a few months away from the peak of the severe weather season in Northern Michigan but the NWS believes it's never too early to start preparing.  That's why this week is National Severe Weather Awareness Week.

We spoke with Jim Keysor, Warning Coordination Meteorologist for the NWS - Gaylord office about the importance of this week.  Keysor said, "Well, it really is an awareness campaign. We're trying to get the word out about the types of products that you would most likely experience during severe weather, watches and warnings and what they mean and what the difference is between them. And also, just basic preparedness information. You know, what should you do when you receive that warning."

The NWS will be issuing statements about severe weather and how to keep yourself safe all week long.

One simple thing to do that makes a world of difference; prepare a kit for your home and car that includes a first-aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, fresh water and of course, a NOAA weather radio to keep you informed of severe weather in your area.

On Wednesday, every National Weather Service station across all of Michigan will be broadcasting a test for an actual tornado warning around 1 pm.

The test will begin with an alert signal followed by instructions for what to do in the event of an actual emergency.

Justin Arnott, Science and Operations Officer for the National Weather Service in Gaylord said, "It will serve as more, somewhat like a test tornado warning to basically act as a simulated warning such that you can practice what you need to do on your end to prepare for such a , you know, such an event."

The National Weather Service is encouraging everyone to participate in the statewide tornado drill for your area.

They say now is the time to review your severe weather plans, know what to do and where to go if a warning is issued for your area.

Be sure to have a plan in place and discuss it with your family before severe weather hits.

If you are indoors, go to the lowest, interior room away from windows and doors.  Keep your head covered and if possible, take cover underneath something sturdy.

If you are outdoors and there is no shelter nearby, lie down in a ditch and cover your head until the threat has passed.

Once the storm has moved on, watch out for fallen debris and damaged power lines.

Click here for a link to the Severe Weather Awareness schedule.