(Submitted by Wood County Health Department and Wood County Emergency Management Agency)
Local public health and safety agencies are encouraging people in Wood County to review their emergency plans and prepare for the potential for severe weather this spring. During Severe Weather Awareness Week, residents will be reminded that preparing in advance is the best way to be ready when tornadoes, thunderstorms and flooding become possible.
As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, Ohio will participate in a statewide tornado drill and test its Emergency Alert System at 9:50 a.m. on Wednesday, March 21. Counties will test their outdoor warning sirens, and schools, households and businesses are encouraged to practice their tornado drills and safety plans.
The best time to prepare for a potential emergency is right now. Make plans for severe weather by knowing the warning signs, drafting a communication plan and gathering emergency supplies at home and in your car.
Wood County Health District and Wood County Emergency Management Agency encourage people to consider the following additional tips:
– Designate a safe location at home where you can seek shelter.
– Know the difference between a weather watch, which means severe weather is possible, and a warning, which means a local event is likely or imminent.
– Install a weather radio in your home. Outdoor warning sirens are meant to be heard outside, not indoors.
– Don’t walk or drive in flood waters. Just a small amount of water can knock you over or take away control of your vehicle.
– Learn more about preparing for potential emergencies at www.weathersafety.ohio.gov and www.ready.gov
