weather - femacontract.com

Be Prepared; Have a Family Emergency Plan

Montgomery, Ala. – Severe weather can happen any time of the year. The best way to prepare for it is with a family emergency plan. If you don’t have one, develop one. If you have an emergency plan, review and update it, then go over it with your family at least once a year.

An emergency plan should include how everyone will contact each other, where to go, how you will get back together and what to do in different situations. A good place to begin is Ready.Gov, the disaster preparedness website managed by the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Forms are available at that site for contact information on each family member, phone numbers of out-of-town contacts, work locations and other important phone numbers.

Also inquire about emergency plans in places where your family spends time, such as work, school and daycare. Incorporate this information into your plan.

Identify an out-of-town friend or relative as a contact person for your family members. During an emergency each member of the family will call the contact and let them know they are safe. An out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members.

Decide where to go in an emergency. Plan for different scenarios, such as where to go if there is a fire. Where in the home is the safest place if a tornado hits? If you live in an area susceptible to hurricanes, decide whether to evacuate or stay. Plan several evacuation routes, if possible, in case some roads become impassable. Identify where you will stay until it is safe to return home. If you have pets, find, in advance, places to board them or hotels and shelters that are pet friendly.

During a wide-scale disaster, such as tornado or hurricane, prepare for power outages. Keep fresh batteries for flashlights, keep cell phones fully charged. If you don’t have one, consider purchasing a cell phone charger for your vehicle. Also, keep your gas tank full.

During hurricane season, keep a basic disaster supply kit of nonperishable food, water, first aid supplies, medicines, disposable diapers, formula and baby food (if necessary), plus extra food and water for pets. Don’t forget a manual can opener. Keep these items in a waterproof container and include enough food and water for several days.

A battery-operated weather radio will be invaluable in an emergency. These radios can be programmed to your local weather service office and will provide information on approaching severe weather in your area. Heed their advice if you are directed to evacuate.

Keep enough cash on hand to get through several days. Banks will likely be closed and ATMs won’t function during a power outage.

Several government agencies work together to help you and your family stay safe. If you would like additional information, try these links:

Link to article:

Be Prepared; Have a Family Emergency Plan

Beware Those Uninvited Guests at Picnics and Beach Excursions: Thunder and Lightning Can Be Dangerous

LINCROFT, N.J. – Beach, softball and picnic season offers lots of opportunities for outdoor fun.

Most of us look forward to these sunny day celebrations all year, but unfortunately Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate.

Most of us have had the experience of being outdoors when we feel the first few drops of rain on our shoulders, hear rumbles of thunder in the sky or spot a flash of lightning in the distance.

Many of us heard as children that it’s possible to gauge how far away thunder and lightning storm is by counting the seconds between the sound of thunder and the appearance of lightning in the sky.

Scientists say that there is truth to that assumption. While the speed of sound changes depending on the temperature and the amount of humidity in the air, it can reasonably be estimated to travel at approximately 1,200 feet per second or approximately one mile in five seconds.

Counting the seconds after you see the first lightning bolt in the sky, you can estimate how far away it is by using this rough measure. If 10 seconds pass before you heard thunder, then the source of the lightning is approximately 2 miles away.

Safety experts advise abiding by the 30/30 lightning rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you can’t count to 30 before hearing thunder, and stay indoors for 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.

Remember, lightning is both unpredictable and dangerous. Between 1950 and 2012, more than 4,000 Americans were killed by lightning.

The top three states for lightning fatalities are Florida, with 468 deaths between 1959 and 2012; Texas, with 215 deaths between 1959 and 2012, and North Carolina, with 194 fatal strikes

While lightning may be less frequent in other states, it is no less deadly when it strikes. From 1959-2012, 74 New Jerseyans were killed by lightning.

The riskiest time of day for lightning strikes is during summer afternoons and evenings.

If you are caught outside during a sudden thunder and lightning event, get inside a building or take shelter in a hard-top (not a convertible) automobile.

Keep in mind that, contrary to common folklore, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide no protection from lightning. It is the steel frame of an automobile that provides some protection, not its rubber tires. Although you may still be at risk of injury inside an automobile, you are safer there than you would be out in the open.

If you are in an open area without shelter, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods.

If you are in a forest when a storm approaches, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees.

If you feel your hair stand on end, which indicates that lightning is about to strike, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet, put your hands over your ears and put your head between your knees in order to make yourself as small a target as possible. It’s important to minimize your contact with the ground. Do not lie flat on the ground.

Remember: Your chances of being struck by lightning are about 1 in 600,000 – but it does happen.

Before you make plans for the beach, ball game or picnic, check the weather report to see whether there is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch or Severe Thunderstorm Warning for your area.

By taking a few precautions, you can substantially reduce your risk of being injured by lightning and enjoy all that summer has to offer.

For more information about protecting yourself during lightning and thunder storms, go to www.ready.gov.

http://www.fema.gov/disaster/4086/updates/sandy-one-year-later
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications

Visit source:

Beware Those Uninvited Guests at Picnics and Beach Excursions: Thunder and Lightning Can Be Dangerous

FEMA Urges Continued Preparedness as Severe Weather Continues; Teams Deployed to Assist States’ Response Efforts and Coordinate Federal Support

WASHINGTON – At the direction of President Obama, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is supporting impacted areas after last night’s severe weather outbreak in the central United States. FEMA has Incident Management Assistance Teams on the ground at the State Emergency Operations Centers in Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

Today, President Obama called Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe to receive an update on the severe weather and express his condolences for those families who lost a loved one and his concern for the individuals still missing. He expressed his gratitude for the heroic first responders working to save lives. Secretary Johnson also called Governor Beebe to offer condolences and the support of the Department of Homeland Security. FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate is traveling to Arkansas today to ensure the appropriate federal resources are being brought to bear to support the state and local efforts.

Overnight, FEMA deployed the Texas Task Force 1 Urban Search & Rescue Team as well as the White Incident Support Team to the State of Arkansas. An additional team based in Nebraska is also on alert and prepared to deploy if requested. FEMA has liaisons in Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi prepared to coordinate any requests for federal assistance.

FEMA has activated its National Response Coordination Center in Washington D.C. and the Regional Response Coordination Center in Atlanta, Georgia to help coordinate any requests for assistance from impacted States or Tribes. These centers bring together partners from the federal family including the National Weather Service, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and others to closely coordinate federal resources that may be requested from the impacted State and Tribal governments.

“Severe weather is continuing to have impacts across the region, so stay informed about changing weather conditions and know what to do during a tornado by visiting ready.gov,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “FEMA is working to support the efforts of state, tribal and local first responders as they help residents affected by these storms.”

FEMA remains in close contact with the National Weather Service, which continues to forecast the potential for severe weather to develop later today. Widespread severe storms — including strong tornadoes, damaging winds and very large hail — are expected Monday and Monday night over parts of the eastern United States from the Mississippi valley to the Appalachians. The greatest risk is forecast from southern Kentucky and Tennessee south into Mississippi and Alabama.

Severe weather can occur anytime, day or night, and residents should be prepared to take action immediately. For a complete listing of weather-related forecasts in the area, visit www.weather.gov.

When natural disasters, such as tornadoes and severe storms strike, the first responders are local emergency and public works personnel, volunteers, humanitarian organizations, and numerous private interest groups who provide emergency assistance required to protect the public’s health and safety and to meet immediate human needs.

Severe Weather & Tornado Safety Tips

Maintain an emergency supply kit both at home and in the car to help prepare for power outages or impassable roads. Visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn more about how to be better prepared and how to protect your family during emergencies. Find severe weather and tornado preparedness tips at http://www.ready.gov/severe-weather.
Follow the instructions of state and local officials, and listen to local radio or TV stations for updated disaster response and evacuation information. Residents can listen to NOAA Weather Radio and local news to monitor for severe weather updates and warnings. The National Weather Service is the source for tornado watches and warnings.
Become familiar with the terms used to identify severe weather and discuss with your family what to do if a watch or warning is issued. Terms used to describe tornado and other severe weather hazards include the following:

For a flash flood:

A flash flood watch: Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; monitor NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
A flash flood warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

For a severe thunderstorm:

A severe thunderstorm watch means that a severe thunderstorm with large hail and/or damaging winds is possible in your area.
A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm with large hail and/or damaging winds is occurring or imminent, move indoors immediately.

For a tornado:

A tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area.
A tornado warning means a tornado is either occurring or imminent, take shelter immediately.

Residents are encouraged to prepare for what to do during a tornado and plan where you will go if a tornado watch is issued in your community:

Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.
If underground shelter is not available, go to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Most injuries associated with high winds are from flying debris, so remember to protect your head.
Vehicles, trailers and mobile homes are not good locations to ride out a tornado. Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible.
If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
Plan to stay in the shelter location until the danger has passed.

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are now being sent directly to many cell phones on participating wireless carriers’ networks. WEAs sent by public safety officials such as the National Weather Service are designed to get your attention and to provide brief, critical instructions to warn about imminent threats like severe weather. Take the alert seriously and follow instructions. More information is available on WEA at www.ready.gov/alerts

The American Red Cross Tornado Warning and Alert app has an automatic audible siren that goes off when NOAA issues a tornado warning, provides notification when a warning expires and allows users to let other know they are safe. For more information visit www.redcross.org.

For more information on severe weather and tornado preparedness tips, visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to find out how you can protect your family during emergencies.

Follow FEMA online at blog.fema.gov, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

See the original article here:

FEMA Urges Continued Preparedness as Severe Weather Continues; Teams Deployed to Assist States’ Response Efforts and Coordinate Federal Support

Severe Weather Safety: What You Need to Know

CHICAGO – Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere.

Spring flooding is common throughout Minnesota—whether along the Red River, Mississippi, or another one of the state’s many bodies of water. In addition, communities in Minnesota regularly face severe storms and tornadoes that leave behind costly damages for residents to recover from. Everyone should be ready for these risks.

March 2 – 8, 2014 marks the third annual National Severe Weather Preparedness Week – a partnership between FEMA and NOAA to encourage all Americans to learn their weather risks and take steps to prepare.

The first step is to know your risk – understand the types of hazardous weather that can affect your community, and the impact it may have on you and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly and sign up for alerts from your local emergency management officials. Consider purchasing a NOAA weather radio to get the latest updates on severe weather in your area.

Understand the hazards for which you are at risk and then take action: Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice how and where to take shelter before a severe weather event. Post your plan in your home where family and visitors can see it. Create or refresh an emergency kit for needed food, supplies and medication—make sure to keep a kit in your car, at the office and at home, so you are protected regardless of where you may be. For a list of items to include in your emergency kit, visit www.ready.gov/build-a-kit.

Don’t forget to consider pets when making emergency plans, and also take into account any unique needs you or your family might have so you’re best prepared for unforeseen emergencies.

It is also important to take the time to assure you’re fully insured. Remember, homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood damage, and there is a 30-day waiting period before a flood policy becomes effective. Contact your insurance agent to review your insurance coverage so your home is financially protected.

“Over the past several years, Minnesota has been significantly impacted by costly flooding and dangerous tornadoes,” said FEMA Region V Administrator Andrew Velasquez III. “Taking steps now to prepare will ensure you are ready if severe weather threatens your area this year.”

For even more readiness information follow FEMA Region V at twitter.com/femaregion5 and facebook.com/fema. Individuals can always find valuable severe weather preparedness information at www.ready.gov/severe-weather or download the free FEMA app, available for Android, Apple or Blackberry devices.

Follow FEMA online at twitter.com/femaregion5, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at twitter.com/craigatfema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Media Contact: Cassie Ringsdorf, (312) 408-4455

###

From:

Severe Weather Safety: What You Need to Know

Severe Storm Safety: What You Need to Know

CHICAGO – Severe storms can happen anywhere, anytime in Illinois.

Last spring, extensive flooding throughout the state of Illinois resulted in more than $166 million in federal assistance to individuals for essential home repairs and clean-up. Then in November, severe storms and tornadoes left more than 1,000 homes severely damaged or destroyed throughout Illinois.

Disasters such as these show us how unexpected weather can be. But that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare for it. Hazardous weather is a risk everyone should be ready for.

Understand the hazards for which you are at risk for and then take action: Develop an emergency plan based on your local weather hazards and practice how and where to take shelter before a severe weather event. Post your plan in your home where family and visitors can see it. Create or refresh an emergency kit for needed food, supplies and medication—make sure to keep a kit in your car, at the office and at home, so you are protected regardless of where you may be. For a list of items to include in your emergency kit, visit www.ready.gov/build-a-kit.

Don’t forget to consider pets when making emergency plans, and also take into account any unique needs you or your family might have so you’re best prepared for unforeseen emergencies.

It isalso important to take the time now to assure you are fully insured. Contact your insurance agent to review your insurance coverage so your home is financially protected from the impacts of severe weather.

“Many Illinois residents were impacted by costly floods and dangerous storms in 2013” said FEMA Region V Administrator Andrew Velasquez III. “Taking steps now to prepare will ensure you are ready if severe weather threatens your area this year.”

“It’s been a long, hard winter in Illinois and everyone is looking forward to warmer weather,” said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken. “Warmer weather can bring with it the threat of dangerous weather, such as tornadoes, severe storms and flooding. We’re working to help Illinois citizens understand these hazards and providing information that will help them be better prepared for the unexpected.”

For even more readiness information follow FEMA Region V at twitter.com/femaregion5 and facebook.com/fema. Individuals can always find valuable severe weather preparedness information at www.ready.gov/severe-weatheror download the free FEMA app, available for Android, Apple or Blackberry devices.

Media Contact: Cassie Ringsdorf, (312) 408-4455

###

View post:

Severe Storm Safety: What You Need to Know

NOAA, FEMA: Be a Force of Nature

National Severe Weather Preparedness Week March 2-8

During National Severe Weather Preparedness Week March 2 to 8, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are calling on individuals across the country to Be a Force of Nature: Take the Next Step by preparing for severe weather and encouraging others to do the same.

Just one tornado can cause catastrophic damage. Last year, the EF 5 tornado that struck Moore, Okla., on May 20 killed 24 people and caused more than $2 billion in damage. In 2013, a total of 903 tornadoes were reported in the United States. Those tornadoes occurred in 43 states on 152 days, resulting in 55 fatalities and more than 500 injuries.

As more people move to tornado-prone areas, knowing what to do when severe weather strikes could save lives.

“With the devastation of last year’s tornadoes fresh in our minds and springtime almost here, I urge individuals to become weather-ready now,” said NOAA National Weather Service Director Dr. Louis Uccellini. “Make sure you have multiple ways to access forecasts and warnings from NOAA’s National Weather Service before severe weather strikes.”

“Being ready today can make a big difference for you when disaster strikes,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “It only takes a few minutes. Talk with your family and agree to a family plan. Learn easy steps on how to prepare at Ready.gov and find out how your community can take action in America’s PrepareAthon through drills, group discussions and community exercises.”

Our severe weather safety message is simple: know your risk, take action, be an example.

• Know Your Risk: The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you and your family. Sign up for weather alerts and check the weather forecast regularly.

• Take Action: Make sure you and your family are prepared for severe weather. Your family may not be together when a storm strikes, so plan how you will contact one another by developing your family communication plan. Make sure you put together an emergency kit and store important papers and valuables in a safe place. Visit Ready.gov/severe-weather to learn more about how to be better prepared and how you can protect your family when severe weather strikes.

• Be an Example: Once you have taken action, tell family, friends, and co-workers to do the same. Share the resources and alert systems you discovered through your social media network. Technology today makes it easier than ever to be a good example and share the steps you took to become weather-ready. Share these new videos to help your friends and families to prepare.

• Get Weather Ready: Before a Tornado – http://youtu.be/uE66ganofF0

• Get Weather Ready: During a Tornado – http://youtu.be/_5TiTfuvotc

• Get Weather Ready: After a Tornado – http://youtu.be/UQ94ESZulA8

NOAA and FEMA’s involvement in the innovative Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) project, a new text-like message system, is part of a national effort to increase emergency preparedness and build a Weather-Ready Nation. Last year millions of individuals across the country received WEAs with life-saving weather warnings via their cell phone. These geographically targeted emergency alerts have allowed people to receive weather warnings they would not have otherwise received, and many people took life-saving action. For more information, visit www.ready.gov/alerts.

# # #

NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Facebook, Twitter and our other social media channels.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. http://www.ready.gov/

See original:

NOAA, FEMA: Be a Force of Nature

FEMA Urges Residents Across the South and Southeast to Prepare for Severe Winter Weather

Residents Should Follow the Direction of Local Officials

WASHINGTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is closely coordinating with states potentially impacted by severe winter weather across the southern United States. FEMA, through its regional offices in Atlanta, Philadelphia, New York, and Denton TX, and its National Watch Center in Washington, D.C. as well as its federal partners, including the National Weather Service, continues to closely monitor the severe winter weather currently impacting the South and Southeast, and forecasted to move up the Eastern Seaboard.

Today, President Obama declared an emergency for 45 counties in the State of Georgia, at the request of Georgia Governor Nathan Neal, authorizing FEMA to support the state in its efforts to respond to the storm. FEMA has deployed a Federal Coordinating Officer and a liaison to support the state emergency operations center in Atlanta.

FEMA continues to be in close, continuing contact with state, tribal and local partners in potentially impacted areas and stands ready to support its partners, if requested and needed. FEMA has also enhanced staffing at its Regional Watch Center in Atlanta and at its National Watch Center in Washington D.C.

According to the National Weather Service, a major winter storm will impact locations from Texas to the Southeast today before it moves up the Eastern Seaboard on Wednesday. Residents along the path of the storm can find their local forecast at www.weather.gov.

When natural disasters like severe weather strike, the first responders are local emergency and public works personnel, volunteers, humanitarian organizations, and private organizations who provide emergency assistance required to protect the public’s health and safety and to meet immediate human needs.

FEMA encourages residents and visitors in the track of the storms to follow the instructions of state, local and tribal officials, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio and their local news for updates and directions provided by local officials. Residents can find trusted sources for weather and preparedness information via Twitter on FEMA’s Social Hub here: http://www.fema.gov/social-hub

Wireless Emergency Alerts are currently being sent directly to many cell phones on participating wireless carrier networks. These alerts are sent by public safety officials such as the National Weather Service about imminent threats like severe weather. They look like a text message and show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. More information on Wireless Emergency Alerts is available at http://www.ready.gov/alerts. Individuals can check with their cellular carrier to determine if their phone or wireless device is WEA-enabled.

Preparing for Severe Winter Weather

FEMA encourages all Americans to visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn more about how to be better prepared and how to protect your family during emergencies.

Get to know the terms that are used to identify winter storm hazards and discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued.

A Blizzard Warning is issued for winter storms when the following conditions are expected to last for at least three hours: winds of at least 35 miles per hour with considerable snowfall that reduces visibility to ¼ of a mile or less.
A Winter Weather Advisory means cold, ice and snow are expected.
A Winter Storm Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two.
A Winter Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon.
An Ice Storm Warning is when freezing rain produces a significant and possibly damaging accumulation of ice.
Freezing Rain creates a coating of ice on roads and walkways.
Sleet is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and become slippery.

Avoid traveling by car, but if you must, make sure you have an emergency supply kit in the trunk of your car. FEMA encourages families to maintain an emergency supply kit both at home and in the car to help prepare for winter power outages and icy or impassable roads.

An emergency supply kit should include a three-day supply of food and water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and extra flashlights and batteries. Thoroughly check and update your family’s emergency supply kit and add the following supplies in preparation for winter weather:

Rock salt to melt ice on walkways;
Sand to improve traction;
Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment; and
Adequate clothing and blankets to help keep you warm.

Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan. Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government, and ensure your home and car are prepared for the winter weather.

For more information and winter preparedness tips, please visit: www.ready.gov/winter-weather or www.listo.gov to find out how you can prepare your family for winter storms and other disasters.

Residents Should Follow the Direction of Local Officials

Preparing for Severe Winter Weather

FEMA encourages all Americans to visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn more about how to be better prepared and how to protect your family during emergencies.

Get to know the terms that are used to identify winter storm hazards and discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued.

A Blizzard Warning is issued for winter storms when the following conditions are expected to last for at least three hours: winds of at least 35 miles per hour with considerable snowfall that reduces visibility to ¼ of a mile or less.
A Winter Weather Advisory means cold, ice and snow are expected.
A Winter Storm Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two.
A Winter Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon.
An Ice Storm Warning is when freezing rain produces a significant and possibly damaging accumulation of ice.
Freezing Rain creates a coating of ice on roads and walkways.
Sleet is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and become slippery.

Rock salt to melt ice on walkways;
Sand to improve traction;
Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment; and
Adequate clothing and blankets to help keep you warm.

Visit source –

FEMA Urges Residents Across the South and Southeast to Prepare for Severe Winter Weather

This Holiday Season, Give the Gift of Preparedness

LINCROFT, N.J.– The heavy demands of the holiday season can be a busy time for all. Managing family obligations and handling seasonal preparations alongside regular day-to-day activities can make disaster preparedness less of a priority. In fact, the onset of winter is a critical time for safety preparation, and several items that are critical in emergencies also make good holiday gifts.

A weather radio is a recommended purchase, preferably one developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Consumer Electronics Association. These radios broadcast National Weather Service forecasts and severe weather warnings 24 hours a day on the NOAA’s radio network. They cost between $20 and $200. Portable and handheld radios generally cost less than desktop models. FEMA recommends that the radio has an alarm, can run on batteries, solar power or a hand crank, and has an external or wireless output for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or blind, allowing connection to an alarm or other attention-getting device, such as a personal computer or text printer. Visit www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr for more information and to find a list of frequencies used for weather alerts.

A solar charging unit for charging and powering electronic devices is also recommended. These range in size from pocket-sized units to fold-out panel arrays and are powered by the sun, making them useful on clear days when electricity is unavailable. Prices start at less than $10 and can exceed $200.

A regular car charger can serve the same purpose. Pricing for these is more closely tied to size, starting at $3 and going up to $70 for multiple-device units. For any charger, make sure that it is properly adapted for the devices you will be using. Cell phones, tablets, cameras and computers have different connection points to external power supplies. More than one unit may be necessary.

Generators can serve as backup power sources in emergencies. A generator that produces a minimum of 4,000-5,000 watts of power is recommended. Contact an electrician to find out how much power your home needs. Generators in the 5,000-8,000 watt range can cost as little as $600 and as much as $4,000, and some may require additional accessories which will cost extra. Portable generators cost less than stationary standby models.

To cook food or heat water, pick up a camping stove. These outdoor-only stoves use propane, butane or other solid fuels. Butane- and cartridge-fueled stoves are less expensive ($10 to $50) than their propane-powered counterparts, but they usually only have one burner and those fuels are less effective in cold weather. Dual-burner stoves are more likely to run on propane and cost between $30 and $100. Single-burner propane stoves range from $20 to $60. You’ll also want to have enough fuel on hand for your stove. Small propane tanks cost between $3 and $6, packs of butane cans cost between $6 and $12 depending on the size of the pack, and solid fuel cartridge packs cost between $8 and $20.

Tea kettles are better for boiling water than pots or pans because they are enclosed and the metal interiors allow for more even heating. Most kettles suited for outdoor use are made of stainless steel, enamel or aluminum. These range in price from $15 to $75.

Ready-made first-aid kits can be purchased for use in the home or car. The Red Cross sells its own at www.redcrossstore.org and many retail stores also carry them. A pre-assembled kit with enough supplies for a family costs less than $40. Visit www.ready.gov/build-a-kit for lists of recommended safety kit items.

If you need both hands free to work, search or dig in darkness, consider a head lamp. Most head lamps are mounted on an elastic strap that can be wrapped around a hat or worn directly on the wearer’s head. A consumer-grade lamp can be purchased for less than $100.

Follow this link:

This Holiday Season, Give the Gift of Preparedness

Six Months After Deadly Tornadoes, Winter Weather Preparedness Day Reminds Oklahomans to Stay Ready for Severe Weather

OKLAHOMA CITY – Nearly six months after the start of deadly tornadoes that struck the state, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and FEMA urge Oklahomans to continue to stay prepared for severe weather.

During this time of year, that means being ready for hazardous winter weather conditions. Wednesday, Nov. 13 is Winter Weather Preparedness Day in Oklahoma. As we near the winter weather season, this is a time for Oklahomans to become prepared for freezing temperatures and the snow and ice that may accompany them.

Travel

Before traveling, prepare your vehicle:

• Pack blankets, emergency food and water, flashlights, a radio and a cell phone with extra batteries in case you and your family become stranded due to weather.
• Make sure you have plenty of fuel; a good rule of thumb is to keep your fuel tank at least half full.
• Check antifreeze, washer blades and tire pressure.

Always heed the warnings of law enforcement and transportation officials regarding road conditions and refrain from traveling when possible.

If you must travel during a snow or ice event, allow extra time to reach your destination, and make sure you have plenty of fuel.

Be particularly cautious on bridges and overpasses as they will be the first to freeze. Stay back at least 200 feet behind salt and sand equipment in order to stay safe.

Always wear your seat belt.

Bring a cell phone with an emergency roadside assistance number. (In case of emergency, you can call the Oklahoma Highway Patrol at *55 or 911.)

If you must go out during a winter storm, let someone know your destination, as well as your route and when you expect to arrive.

If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle. After snowfall has stopped, hang a brightly-colored cloth on the radio antenna and raise the hood.

Carry extra clothing, blankets and high energy snacks, such as cereal or candy bars in your car for protection if car stalls.

Pack a kit that includes:

• A cell phone with extra batteries or two-way radio
• A windshield scraper, a shovel and small broom for ice and snow removal
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Rain gear and extra sets of dry clothing, mittens, socks and a cap
• Water and non-perishable, high-energy foods
• A small sack of sand or kitty litter for generating traction under wheels and a set of tire chains or traction mats
• Jumper cables
• A first aid kit
• A flashlight with extra batteries
• A brightly-colored cloth to tie to the antenna if you get stranded.

Be Aware

Know what winter storm and blizzard watches and warnings mean:

• A National Weather Service winter storm watch is a message indicating that conditions are favorable for a winter storm.
• A National Weather Service warning indicates that a winter storm is occurring or is imminent.
• A blizzard warning means sustained winds or frequent gusts up to 35 mph or greater and considerable falling or blowing snow are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.

Understand the hazards of wind chill. A strong wind combined with a temperature of just below freezing can have the same effect as a still air temperature of 35 degrees or colder.

Check for weather-related road conditions through the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety at dps.state.ok.us or by calling toll free, (888) 425-2385 or (405) 425-2385.

At Home

Check on friends, relatives and neighbors who live alone, especially seniors and those with disabilities.

Develop a family disaster plan for winter storms. Discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued. Everyone should know what to do in case all family members are not together when a winter storm hits.

Make sure pets have food and water and a place to seek shelter.

While indoors, try to keep at least one room heated to 70 degrees to prevent hypothermia. This is especially important for seniors and children.

Stay warm at night with extra blankets, a warm cap, socks and layered clothing.

To keep pipes from freezing, wrap them in insulation or layers of old newspapers. Cover the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture. Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing. Know how to shut off water valves if necessary.

Keep safe emergency-heating equipment, such as a fireplace with wood. Always be cautious in using a portable space heater and never leave the heater on when you are not in the room or when you go to bed.

Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Do not use an unvented gas or kerosene heater in closed spaces, especially sleeping areas.
• Do not use gas appliances such as an oven, grill, range or clothes dryer to heat your home.
• Do not burn charcoal inside a house, garage, vehicle or tent for heating or cooking, even in a fireplace.
• Look for carbon monoxide exposure symptoms including headache, dizziness, weakness, sleepiness, nausea and vomiting that can progress to disorientation, coma, convulsions and death.
• If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, open doors and windows, turn off gas appliances, and go outside for fresh air. Call 9-1-1 emergency medical services in severe cases.
• Install and check/replace batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

Stay informed:

Find a full list of winter weather preparedness tips or sign up now to receive weather alerts on your cell phone or other email address at ok.gov/OEM/.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provides additional information online about winter weather watches, warnings and advisories: srh.noaa.gov/ama/?n=wwad.

For more information on Oklahoma disaster recovery, visit the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management site at oem.ok.gov or fema.gov/disaster/4117.

See original article here –

Six Months After Deadly Tornadoes, Winter Weather Preparedness Day Reminds Oklahomans to Stay Ready for Severe Weather

FEMA Urges Residents to Continue Monitoring Conditions as Tropical Storm Approaches Gulf Coast

Heavy Rains and Flooding Possible in Some Areas

WASHINGTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), through its national response coordination center in Washington, D.C. and its regional offices in Atlanta, Ga., and Denton, Texas remains in close coordination with states potentially affected by Tropical Storm Karen. According to the National Weather Service, tropical storm conditions are expected along areas of the Gulf Coast as early as this afternoon and into Sunday.

“Residents along the Gulf Coast are encouraged to continue to monitor local conditions and follow the direction of local officials,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “As the storm continues to move toward land, residents may begin to experience strong winds and flooding. Remember that conditions can change with little or no notice.”

Based on applicable legal requirements and consistent with its contingency plan, FEMA has recalled currently furloughed employees necessary to serve functions of the agency that protect life and property as they prepare for potential landfall of Tropical Storm Karen.

FEMA has recalled staff necessary to deploy four incident management assistance teams (IMAT), including a national incident management assistance team (IMAT), to potentially affected states. Each IMAT is supported by its defense coordinating element staffed by the Department of Defense. Liaison officers are currently positioned in emergency operations centers in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi to assist with the coordination of planning and response operations. Additional teams are on standby and available for deployment as needed and requested.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate spoke with Alabama Governor Robert Bentley, Florida Governor Rick Scott, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, and Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant this week about ongoing efforts to prepare for Tropical Storm Karen. Fugate reiterated that Gulf Coast states have the full support of FEMA and the rest of the federal family in advance of the storm making landfall. Fugate’s calls were preceded by outreach from FEMA’s Regional Administrators to emergency management officials in potentially impacted states.

According to the National Weather Service, a tropical storm warning remains in effect from Morgan City, La. to the mouth of the Pearl River. A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours. Also, a tropical storm watch remains in effect for metropolitan New Orleans, Lake Maurepas, Lake Pontchartrain and from east of the mouth of the Pearl River to Indian Pass, Fla. A tropical storm watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible, generally within 48 hours.

Severe Weather Safety and Preparedness Tips for Potentially-affected Gulf Coast areas:

Have important supplies ready to sustain you and your family, if needed. This includes water, a battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, cell phone charger, medicines, non-perishable food, and first aid supplies.
History shows that storm tracks can change quickly and unexpectedly, so FEMA encourages coastal residents to monitor weather conditions and take steps now to get prepared for potential severe tropical weather.
Tropical storms can bring high winds and heavy rains, so listen to local officials and follow their instructions.

FEMA, through its regional offices in Chicago, Ill and Kansas City, Mo., also is monitoring the storms affecting and potentially affecting areas of the Central U.S., including portions of Iowa and Nebraska, and has been in touch with state and local officials. FEMA deployed a liaison to the emergency operations center in Nebraska and activated an incident management assistance team (IMAT), positioning the team for immediate deployment should assistance be requested by the states affected. FEMA continues to stand ready to support the states, as requested.

For more information on preparing for hurricanes, severe weather and other natural disasters, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family, visit www.Ready.gov or www.listo.gov. Information regarding emergency preparedness and what to do before and after a disaster can also be found at m.fema.gov or by downloading the FEMA app from your smartphone’s app store.

Follow FEMA online at blog.fema.gov, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Original article –

FEMA Urges Residents to Continue Monitoring Conditions as Tropical Storm Approaches Gulf Coast

Page 3 of 7 « 1 2 3 4 5 » ... Last »