Preparedness key to surviving severe weather

By: Jeremy Wise | The Enterprise Ledger
Published: February 17, 2012

NEW BROCKTON, Ala. --

Almost every type of potentially dangerous weather phenomena can occur in Alabama, but the way to survive each one often begins with actions before storms hit.

Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley has declared this week as Severe Weather Awareness Week, and emergency officials will be disseminating tips on how to survive specific types of severe weather.

Officials will focus on severe thunderstorms Monday and lightning Tuesday. Tornado safety will be discussed Wednesday and flooding will be addressed Thursday.

The week concludes Friday with a discussion of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency weather radio system and all-hazards systems.

Having a NOAA weather radio is just one step in staying prepared ahead of the storm, according to Coffee County Emergency Management Agency Director Larry Walker.

The radios keep people informed of impending danger, which gives them time to react, he said. Codes for each county can be found online, and it is a good idea to program neighboring counties, such as Covington and Geneva, into the radio, as well.

“Instead of having 20 minutes, you may get an hour (warning),” he said.

“For any and all (types), preparedness is key. You can’t go in an ‘Oh, my God’ approach and start preparing. You need to get those (emergency) kits ready ahead of the storm,” Walker said.

The kits should specifically have items such food and water for three days. According to the American Red Cross site, families should have one gallon of water per person per day saved.

Walker said those who live in the city may be OK with water pressure even in power failure, but those with their own well pumps should go ahead and draw their own water ahead of the storm.

Other items the kit should include are flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits and a seven-day supply of medication, according to the American Red Cross. A full list can be found online at www.redcross.org.

For specific tips to weather each storm type safely, visit www.noaa.org or see future editions of The Enterprise Ledger.