What to do in a crisis
Tree Damage Prevention Falling trees and limbs cause significant storm damage every year. Before Storm Season: • Remove dead or diseased branches. • Trim limbs hanging over roofs, driveways, and power lines. • Have large trees inspected. • Remove weak or damaged trees. • Keep gutters clear to prevent water damage. Every household should have an emergency kit that can sustain your family for at least 72 hours. Build an Emergency Kit To assemble, store items in airtight plastic bags and put them in easy-to- carry containers. And don’t forget the pets! Include pet supplies, pet food, medi- cations, medical records, leashes, and carriers in your emergency kit as well. What Belongs in a Storm-Ready Kit? Items to include: • Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking three-day supply of non-perishable food) • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA • Weather Radio with tone alert and sanitation) • Food (at least a
• Flashlight • First aid kit • Extra batteries • Whistle • Dust mask • Plastic sheeting and duct tape • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties • Wrench or pliers • Manual can opener • Local maps • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery Source: getagameplan.org Generator Safety Tips • Never run a generator indoors. • Avoid garages and en closed spaces. • Use heavy-duty outdoor extension cords. • Don’t plug a generator
• Charge phones, laptops, and battery packs. • Secure outdoor furniture and loose items. • Monitor forecasts closely. During the Storm: • Wear sturdy shoes in case debris is • Use helmets, blankets, or mattresses to protect against flying debris. • Stay away from windows. After the Storm: * Watch for downed power lines. • Avoid floodwaters. • Check on neighbors if safe to do so. • Report damage to local authorities. • Document property damage with photos for insurance claims. present afterward. • Bring pets inside. Severe storms often bring extended power outages. Prepare by keeping: • Flashlights and extra batteries • Portable phone chargers • Battery-powered weather radio • Bottled water • Nonperishable food • Cash for emergencies • Prescription medications If you use medical equipment that requires electricity, discuss backup power options with your healthcare provider. Preparing for Power Outages
directly into a home outlet.
• Keep it dry. • Store fuel safely. • Turn it off before refueling. • Don’t overload it.
Helpful Resources Consider downloading: • NOAA Weather Radio app • The Weather Channel app • Local TV Station weather apps like WBRC, WVTM 13, and ABC 33/40, which provide region-specific alerts and live coverage. • FEMA app • Red Cross Emergency app Enable push notifications and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone for the fastest warning.
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