Be Prepared When Severe Weather Approaches

Citizens urged to prepare before
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Cobb & Douglas Public Health urges residents to begin now preparing for future storms. Whether we are impacted by the current storm system or not, now is a good time to make sure your family is prepared if severe weather should move into this area.

Public health wants you to take the following steps to prepare your home and family:

  • Evaluate and update your emergency plan. Talk with household members and make sure you have a meeting place in case you get separated before or during the storm. Make sure you have emergency numbers such as the phone number to the power company, local Emergency Management Agency, etc.
  • Develop or update an emergency kit that contains items such as extra medication, a 3-5 day supply of bottled water and non-perishable foods, flashlights and batteries, a battery-powered radio, diapers, etc.
  • Be prepared to evacuate by knowing evacuation routes, fill car’s tank with gas and listen for warnings on radio or TV. If you must evacuate and have time, turn off gas, electricity and water in your home.
  • Plan now where you may go if you must leave your home. Make arrangements to stay with friends and/or family.
  • Whether you stay with someone or you have to go to a shelter take extra medication, diapers, blankets, pillows and other necessities.
  • Before a storm hits, make sure you secure any items around your home that may be damaged by the wind.

    • If the storm hits, please stay inside until authorities say it’s safe to go outside. Stay away from downed power lines. Only call 911 if you have an actual emergency.

    These precautions can help keep your family safe during severe weather. If you have any questions about what to do before and during a storm, visit http://ema.cobbcountyga.gov/preparedness.htm or call the Cobb Emergency Management Agency at (770) 499-4567.