Ardmore2021

Emergency Preparedness

Reduce Your Risks From Natural Hazards You face a variety of threats to your health and safety from natural hazards such as thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, floods, flash floods, hurricanes, heat waves and winter storms. Fortunately, the impact of these hazards can be significantly reduced through awareness, planning, and preparedness. We encourage each family to develop a family disaster plan before disaster strikes. For more information about family disaster plans, con- tact your local emergency management agency (EMA), the nearest chapter of the American Red Cross, or the National Weather Service. Remember, when severe weather approaches, monitor local radio and TV stations or NOAA weather radio, and follow the safety tips below:

Thunderstorms & Lightning • Delay outdoor activities. • If caught outdoors, move quickly indoors or into a hardtop vehicle—avoid convertibles. • Stay away from trees, sheds, telephone or power lines, metal pipes, or fences. • If inside, avoid using telephones or other appliances. Tornadoes • If a watch is issued, tornadoes are possible – stay alert and be ready to take immediate cover. • If a warning is issued, a tornado has been sighted or observed on radar—move to shelter, such as a basement or interior hall- way, immediately. • If outside, seek shelter in a safe building, ditch, or low area. • Evacuate mobile homes immediately. • Leave vehicles—take shelter in a building, ditch, or low area. Floods/Flash Floods • Learn local flood risks. • Purchase flood insurance. • During flood, store drinking water in clean bathtubs and other containers. • Keep supply of food that requires no refrigeration or cooking. • Do not eat food that has come into contact with floodwaters. • Be aware of downed power lines and other utility disruptions. • Avoid flooded areas; do not drive on flooded roads; evacuate stalled vehicles in flooded areas.

Hurricanes • If a watch is issued, a hurricane may strike within 24 to 36 hours. • If a warning is issued, a hurricane is expected to strike within 24 hours. • Have 3-day supply of nonperishable food and a “disaster kit” with spare clothing, first aid supplies including prescriptions, flashlights, portable radio, batteries, credit cards, and cash. • Fill vehicle fuel tanks. • Shutter windows and tie down or bring in lawn furniture, grills, and other items. • If local officials recommend evacuation, leave. Heat Waves • Slow down; avoid strenuous activity. • Stay indoors; if air conditioning is not available, stay on lowest floor, out of the sunshine. • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. • Drink plenty of water regularly and often. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine. • Eat small meals and eat more often—avoid high protein foods— they increase metabolic heat. • Avoid salt tablets, unless doctor advises otherwise. Winter Storms • If watch is issued, be alert to changing conditions; avoid unnec- essary travel. • If warning is issued, stay indoors. If you must go outside, wear several layers of lightweight clothing, gloves and a hat; cover your mouth to protect your lungs, understand the dangers of wind chill, walk carefully; avoid overexertion.

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