No one enjoys thinking about large-scale disasters and unexpected events, but the reality is that disasters can and do occur in Gordon County. The good news is you have the ability to help your family make it safely through situations such as natural disasters, pandemic outbreaks and terrorist attacks by preparing today.
September is National Preparedness Month, which is a great opportunity to take a little time to get prepared. Planning ahead will reduce anxiety during a large-scale emergency and will ensure that you have what you need for at least 72 hours until help arrives.
Gordon Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency/Homeland Security’s (GEMA) Ready Georgia campaign encourage all Georgians to create a Ready kit that includes items such as water, nonperishable food, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit and extra clothing. Be sure to add items for pets, infants and family members with disabilities.
Be sure to have a way to receive weather alerts at work, home and on the go. Register for CodeRed Weather Warnings or call 706-602-2905. To ensure you receive alerts even when you are asleep, purchase a NOAA weather radio with a battery back-up. These radios can alert you to severe weather 24 hours a day, giving you time to take shelter and stay safe.
It’s also important to develop a disaster preparedness plan with specific information about how to contact loved ones and reconnect if you are separated during a disaster.
Gordon County EMA and Ready Georgia offer resources to help you and your family prepare. You can even receive a customized Ready kit checklist and communications plan by creating a personal profile at www.ready.ga.gov.
To find out more about emergency preparedness in Gordon County, contact Richard Cooper, Gordon County EMA at 706-602-2905, visit the Ready Georgia Web site at www.ready.ga.gov, or download the Ready Georgia mobile app for iPhone and Android devices. Don’t be scared, be prepared!
