EMA says be prepared for bad weather; annual tornado drill set for Friday at 9

As Wilkes County prepares to take part in the annual statewide severe weather exercise on Friday morning, the local emergency management agency is reminding families to plan now for bad weather later this spring.

"The best thing to do to protect yourself and your family is to have a plan of action in place before threatening tornado develops," said Alan Poss, Wilkes County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director.

First, Poss says, prepare a home tornado plan. "Pick a place where family members could gather if tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered."

Second, assemble your disaster supplies, such as first aid kit and essential medications, canned food and can opener, at least three gallons of water per person, protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags, a battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.

Also, as needed, special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members should be gathered.

Families also need written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise them to do so. "Remember, you'll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on," Poss said.

It's important to listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio and television stations for updated storm information, Poss said. "Know what a tornado watch and warning means: A tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area. A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately."

When a tornado watch is issued, listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio and television stations for further updates. "Be alert to changing weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado may alert you. Many people say it sounds like a freight train," Poss said.

When a tornado warning is issued, he said, "If you're inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your area. If you're outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area. If you're in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety."

The danger may not be over after the tornado passes. "After the tornado passes," Poss said, "watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area. Listen to the radio for information and instructions. Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage. Do not use candles at any time."

For more information, contact Wilkes County EMA at 706-678- 7113, or Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) at 1-800- TRY-GEMA.

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