Georgia emergency managers' update [Jan. 25, 1999]

Georgia Emergency Managers'
UPDATE

GEMA The Team You Can Depend On

ROY E. BARNES GOVERNOR

Planning... Training...Responding...Assisting
Visit our Website @http://www.state.ga.us/GEMA/

GARY W. McCONNELL DIRECTOR

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Special Issue

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Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999

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Enclosed are materials to use in publicizing

conduct the drill during an hour convenient

Georgia's annual "Severe Weather

to schools and other participants. ~

Awareness Week" scheduled for the week of

February 21-27, 1999.

On drill day, the Emergency Alert System

(EAS) will be activated statewide by the

Severe Weather Awareness Week is held to

National Weather Service. Emergency

remind citizens of weather safety procedures

management agency (EMA) directors should

associated with a variety of severe weather

work closely with local broadcasters to

events that pose a serious threat to lives and

ensure that timely information is made

property in Georgia. These events include

available to the public from their respective

winter storms, lightning, hurricanes, floods,

EMA offices.

flash floods, thunderstorms, and tornadoes.

Contact the local news media and encourage

This package contains news releases,

them to join you in this important effort.

"fill-in-the-blank" news releases, radio

Arrange for-interviews to be broadcast and

spots, and a sample letter for you to send to

articles to be published during the month of

your local newspaper editor. The material

February, so that local attention will already

should be retyped on your letterhead with

be focused when it arrives on Severe

the appropriate blanks filled in, and

Weather Awareness Week.

delivered to local newspapers and

broadcasters.

By providing information to your

community which will help residents prepare

Also, included is a copy of the Governor's

for severe weather events and know which

1999 Severe Weather Awareness Week

protective measures to take during severe

Proclamation. You may use it as a example

weather, you will play a vital part in helping

for drafting a local proclamation.

to prevent weather-related deaths, injuries,

and property damage throughout 1999.

A major act1v1ty of Severe Weather

Awareness Week will be the statewide

This year, we are designating Monday,

tornado drill scheduled for Wednesday,

February 22, as "Family Protection Day" to

February 24. In the event of bad weather on

focus attention on what individuals and

that day, which could cause confusion

families can do to protect themselves from

between the simulation and an actual emergency, the drill will be held on Friday,

the dan~ers of sev~re weather. Info~AtJ.oAEIVED
on family protection procedures 1s rt.fhsb'

February 26. Special care will be taken to

included in this package.

AUG 2 3 1999

__ -~O~':'!"_e!1~--

ROY E. BARNES GOVERNOR

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency

P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
Tel: (404) 635-7000 In Georgia 1-800-TRY- GEMA
FAX: (404) 635-7205

GARY W. McCONNELL DIRECTOR

January 25, 1999

Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999
Governor Roy E. Barnes has proclaimed the week of February 21-27, 1999, as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Georgia.
Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999 is designed to educate Georgians about safety, preparedness, and response procedures for a variety of severe weather events, such as floods, hurricanes, lightning, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and winter storms.
In addition to publicizing weather safety measures and severe weather events through the local news media, a statewide tornado drill is scheduled for Wednesday, February 24. The National Weather Service will initiate the drill. Schools, churches, businesses, industries, and local governments are encouraged to participate. In the event of bad weather on the drill day, the drill will be rescheduled for Friday, February 26.
Local and state emergency response organizations should test emergency procedures and equipment during the week of February 21-27. Key participants in this activity will includeJocal . emergency management directors and their staffs, emergency medical service personnel, local and state governmental officials including law enforcement, rescue and fire personnel, school officials, and business and industry personnel.
Monday, February 22, 1999, has been designated as Family Protection Day. On that day, I urge families to discuss, plan, prepare, and rehearse emergency measures they would utilize during the first 72 hours ofa-local disaster.
For additional information about emergency preparedness measures during severe weather events, please visit GEMA's Severe Weather Awareness Week section on the internet at http://www.state.ga.us!GEMA/ which includes numerous links, including:
Federal Emergency Management Agency Home Page (see FEMA For Kids) American Red Cross (see Our Services, Disaster Safety Information) National Hurricane Center Information on Tornadoes
Also, the National Weather Service -- Peachtree City Office maintains a website with a great deal of useful information about Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999. It can be accessed at http://www.srh.noaa.gov!FTPROOT/FFC/.
I encourage each of you to support and promote Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999. The success of this event depends on all of us.

Director

(PROPOSED) BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA
A PROCLAMATION

SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK 1999

WHEREAS:

Each year Georgians face the threat of severe weather events such as snowstorms, lightning, thunderstorms, floods, flash floods, hail storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes, all potentially dangerous to life, health, and property; and

WHEREAS:

Urbanization and continued population growth increase the potential for these storms to cause death and destruction; and

WHEREAS:

During the past 21 years, severe weather events caused the deaths of at least 208 people in Georgia; and

WHEREAS:

Twenty-three (23) weather-related deaths, numerous mjunes, and substantial property damage occurred in Georgia in 1998; and

WHEREAS:

It is vital that effective public education programs concerning severe weather systems and preparedness procedures continue for the benefit of all Georgians; and

WHEREAS:

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency, Emergency Management Association of Georgia, National Weather Service, Georgia Departments of Agriculture, Defense, Education, Human Resources, Natural Resources, Public Safety, and Transportation, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Public Telecommunications Commission, Georgia Tech Research Institute, Office of the Insurance Commissioner, Office of Planning and Budget, Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters, Association County Commissioners of Georgia, Georgia Municipal Association, Georgia Insurance Information Service, Georgia Association of Independent Schools, elected leaders, and news media are committed to continuing efforts to inform Georgia citizens on safety and severe weather preparedness procedures so they may better protect themselves, their families and neighbors; now

THEREFORE:

I, Roy E. Barnes, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim the week of February 21-27, 1999, as "SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK" in Georgia, and urge all our citizens to join in this effort to become more aware of severe weather safety measures and to participate in the various awareness programs scheduled during the week, such as "Family Protection Day" on Monday, February 22, and the "Statewide Tornado Drill" on Wednesday, February 24.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed. This_ day of _ _ 1999.

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/

S>---t-:::::::aNEWS RELEASE)

Tornadoes...Nature's Most Violent Storms

Although tornadoes occur in many parts of the world, these destructive forces of nature

are found most frequently in the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains during the spring

and summer .months. In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide, resulting in 80

deaths and over 1,500 injuries.

_

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the

ground. The most violent tornadoes are capable of tremendous destruction with wind speeds of

250 miles per hour (mph) or inore. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50

miles long.

Thunderstorms develop in warm, moist air in advance of eastward-moving cold fronts.

These thunderstorms often produce large hail, strong winds, and tornadoes. Tornadoes in the

winter and early spring are often associated with strong, frontal systems that form in the central"'

states and move east. Occasionally, large outbreaks of tornadoes occur with this type of weather

pattern. Several states may be affected by numerous severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.

In the southern states, including Georgia, peak tornado activity occurs in March through

May, but they can occur during any month of the year. However, in Georgia arid some other

states, a secondary tornado maximum occurs in the fall. Tornadoes are likely to occur between

3:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., but have been known to occur at all hours of the day or night. The

average tornado moves from southwest to northeast, but they have been known to move in any

direction. The average forward speed is 30 mph but may vary from nearly stationary to 70 mph.

Stay Informed

Listen to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio,

commercial radio, and television for the latest tornado watches and warnings.

When conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop, a severe thunderstorm or

tornado watch is issued. National Weather Service personnel use information from weather

radar, spotters, and other sources to issue severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings for areas

where severe weather is imminent.

Severe thunderstorm warnings are passed to local radio and television stations and are

broadcast over local NOAA Weather Radio stations serving the warned areas. These warnings

are also relayed to local emergency management and public safety officials who can activate local

warning systems to alert communities.

NOAA Weather Radio is the best means to receive warnings from the National Weather

Service. The weather service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts

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which can be received by NOAA Weather Radios sold in many stores. The average range is 40 miles, depending on topography. The National Weather Service recommends purchasing a radio which has both a battery backup and a tone-alert feature that automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued.
Remember, tornadoes occasionally develop in areas in which a severe thunderstonn watch or warning is in effect. Remain alert to signs of an approaching tornado and seek shelter if threatening conditions exist. When there is a severe weather threat, prepare to take cover immediately, if you notice a "greenish" sky, a wall cloud, large hail, or a loud roar, similar to that of a freight train.
What You Can Do Before the storm, develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, school, and when outdoors. Have frequent drills. Know the county in which you live, and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins. Have a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery backup to receive warnings. Listen to radio and television for information. If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necess-ary action if threatening weather is possible. If a warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches the home or building you are in, move to a predesignated shelter, such as a basement. If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Stay away from windows. Get out of automobiles. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately. If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned. Eleven of Georgia's 19 tornado deaths in 1998 occurred in mobile homes.
Tornado Safety in Schools Every school should have a plan! Develop a severe weather action plan and have frequent drills. Each school should also be inspected and tornado shelter areas designated by a registered engineer or architect. Basements offer the best protection. Schools without basements should use interior rooms and hallways on the lowest floor and away from windows. Those responsible for activating the plan should monitor weather information from NOAA Weather Radio and local radio or television. If the school's alarm system relies on electricity, have a compressed air horn or megaphone to use in case of power failure. Make special provisions for disabled students and those in portable classrooms. Make sure someone knows how to turn off the electricity and the gas. Keep children at school beyond regular hours if threatening weather is expected. Children are safer at school than in a bus or car. Students should not be sent home early if severe weather is approaching. Lunches or assemblies in large rooms should be delayed if severe weather is anticipated. Gymnasiums, cafeterias, and auditoriums offer no protection from tornadic winds. Move students quickly into interior rooms or hallways on the lowest floor. Have them kneel alongside a wall, lower their heads in front of their knees, then cover their heads with their arms and hands. Hospitals, nursing homes, and other institutions should develop a similar plan.

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OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/
s;---t-:::::::aNEWS RELEASE}
Prepare Now For Winter Storms
Weather forecasts posting winter storm watches or warnings usually send people
scurrying for groceries and fuel for vehicles and heaters. "People who get caught unprepared by
a winter snow or ice storm usually. find themselves in a serious situation which could be fatal,"
said Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) Director Gary McConnell.
Winter storms are deceptive killers because most deaths are indirectly related to the
storm. People die in traffic accidents on icy roads, from heart attacks while shoveling snow and
pushing cars, from hypothermia after prolonged exposure to cold, and in house fires while
burning alternative fuels for heat or light during power outages.
To prevent the harmful effects of a winter storm, create a family disaster plan and do the
following:
1. Have additional fuel supplies on hand. Fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a severe winter storm, so have heating fuel available.
2. Have an emergency heating source. For example, a fireplace with plenty of wood, a wood stove, space heater, or something you can use as an alternative to your usual heating system. To avoid fire or suffocation, make sure the room is properly ventilated.
3. Close off unneeded rooms. Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors. Cover windows at night.
4. Winterize your vehicle. Also, keep your gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Your auto survival kit should include waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water, a sack of sand or cat litter for traction, shovel, windshield scraper and brush, tool kit, tow rope, booster cables, compass, and road maps. It should also include blankets, a first aid kit, dry clothing, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a brightly colored cloth to tie to the antenna.
5. Conserve your energy. Eat food which provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Replenish your body with fluids to prevent dehydration. Do not eat snow; it will lower your body temperature. Melt it first.

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6. Limit travel to emergencies only. However, if it becomes absolutely necessary for you to

travel, you should:

.

Dress for success. Always make sure you dress for the weather outside, not for the

controlled climate inside your vehicle. Wear several layers of loose-fitting,

lightweight clothing, covered by a topcoat which will keep you warm and dry. Layers

can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill. Always cover your head

and cover your mouth to protect your lungs.

Try not to travel alone. If you must; however, let someone know your timetable as

well as primary and alternate routes.

Protect your home. If you are going to be away from your home, take steps to

protect it. Set the furnace to provide minimum heat. Also, if you are going to be

away for an extended period, tum off the water at the water main and drain all water

from supply lines. Without such precautions, water pipes could freeze or crack.

When the pipes thaw, water will flood your house.

Stay ahead of winter storms by listening to National Oceanic and Atmospheric (NOAA)
Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for:
Winter Storm Watch: Severe winter conditions, such as heavy snow and/or ice, are possible within the next day or two. Prepare now!
Winter Storm Warning: Severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin in your area. Stay indoors!
Blizzard Warning: Snow and strong winds will combine to produce a blinding snow (near zero visibility), deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill. Seek refuge immediately!
Winter Weather Advisory: Winter weather conditions are expe_cted to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. If caution is exercised, these situations should not become life threatening. The greatest hazard is often to motorists.
Frost/Freeze Warning: Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause significant damage to plants, crops, or fruit trees. In areas unaccustomed to freezing temperatures, people who have homes without heat need to take added precautions.

########

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OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000
Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/
. ' 1 J\....N.--E--W----S----R---E---L--E---A---S---E-----~
1998 Floods, Flash Floods Leave Chilling Memories

First came the excessive rain. Between March 5 and 8, some counties got at least seven inches, GEMA field coordinator Deral Dukes recalls. Crisp County received six inches in one day.
"It just rained steadily day and night," he says. Then came scattered flooding, which eventually spread to almost every south Georgia county and some counties north, including Haralson, Douglas, and Forsyth. One of the hardest hit areas was Albany. "The day I arrived in Albany there were just hordes of people trying to sandbag as fast as they could to stem the rising Flint River," recalls Vickie Thompson, GEMA field coordinator. "We went into one of the areas where they anticipated more water. They had these barricades, about 3.5 feet high and made of concrete. They put them down the middle of the streets for a two-mile stretch, covered them with plastic,and piled sandbags on top to secure the-plastic." The image of people desperately working against the swelling river stands out vividly in Thompson's memory. She also recalls the sight of just a tip of a house roof barley sticking out above flooding waters in Sumter County. "It can give you chills," Thompson says. "You just know that everything that means anything to these people was probably in that home." In 1998, floods caused two deaths in Georgia. This type of severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Floods and flash floods are the most conunon and widespread of all natural disasters, except fire. Most communities experience some kind of flooding after spring rains, heavy thunderstorms, or winter snow thaws. Floods can be slow, or fast rising but generally develop over a

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period of days. Dam failures are potentially the worst flood events. When a dam fails, a gigantic

quantity of water is suddenly let loose downstream, destroying anything in its path.

Flash floods usually result from intense storms dropping large amounts of rain within a brief

period. They occur with little or no warning and can reach full peak in only a few minutes. Floods

and flash floods occur within all 50 states. Communities particularly at risk are those located in low-

lying areas, near water, or downstream from a dam," says

County Emergency

~~~~~~~-

Management Agency (EMA) Director ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The north Georgia mountains and the rapidly expanding metropolitan Atlanta area are two

geographical regions of our state that are particularly prone to flash floods. Water from heavy rains

rushing down mountain valleys is a classic cause of flash floods in mountainous areas. The

metropolitan areas of Georgia's major cities are high risk areas for floods and flash floods because

of rapid growth and a high concentration of people living in floodplain areas. Even though floods or

flash floods can happen anytime during the year, most flooding occurs in the spring and summer.

Floods begin when soil and vegetation cannot adequately absorb rainwater or melting snow. This

causes water to run off land surfaces in quantities that cannot be accommodated in normal streams

or lakes and cannot be retained in ponds or-man-made reservoirs. Georgia is particularly prone to

thunderstorms during the summer months. There has been a tendency for some of these storms to

remain in one place for an extended period oftime, thereby causing floods to develop.

"Know the elevation of your property in relation to nearby waterways, before a flood or

flash flood strikes. Plan what to do and where to go if a flood or flash flood emergency occurs.

Learn the safest routes from your home or place of business that lead to safe, high ground. Always

keep a portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, and flashlights in good working order at your

home. If you live in a flood-prone area, keep sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and extra lumber

on hand that can be used to protect and reinforce property. These basic precautions will help

safeguard your family and your property,"

said.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Another very important safeguard is to buy flood insurance. Contact the National Flood

Insurance Program at 1-800-638-6620 today, if you do not have it. Also, keep insurance policies,

photographs, and a list of personal property in a safe place such as a safe-deposit box. These

materials will assist an adjuster in settling claims and will help prove uninsured losses (which are

tax deductible).

########

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OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/
s;---t'""'.::::llNEWS RELEASE)
"Family Protection Day," February 22, Promotes Survival
Governor Roy E. Barnes recently proclaimed the week of February 21-27, 1999, as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Georgia. The purpose of the week is to encourage all Georgians to learn and practice emergency preparedness and response procedures for a variety of severe weather events such as floods, hurricanes, lightning, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and winter storms.
An important feature of the week's activities is the designation of Monday, February 22, as Family Protection Day. On that day, family members are urged to discuss, plan, prepare, and rehearse emergency measures they would utilize during the first 72 hours of any disaster or weather-related event.
During certain emergencies such as ice storms, snowstorms, floods, or hurricanes, it may take emergency response teams 72 hours or more to reach certain areas in order to open roadways and restore electrical power. The benefit of being self-sufficient for 72 hours or longer, if possible, is that you and your loved ones can survive ordeals that would be fatal, if you were not properly prepared.
Families should prepare for all hazards affecting their particular geographical area. The first step is to develop a family disaster plan.
Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere -- at work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services -- water, gas, electricity, or telephones -- were cut off? Your family's disaster plan must address these types of questions.

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Follow these basic steps to develop afamily disaster plan....
Gather information about hazards. In addition to your local emergency management agency (EMA), contact the nearest National Weather Service office or the American Red Cross. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans.
Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot right outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you cannot return home. Choose an out-of-state friend or relative as your "family check-in. contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate.
Implement your plan.
1. Post emergency telephone numbers by phones.
2. Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
3. Inspect your home for potential hazards, such as items which can move, fall, break; or catch fire, and correct them.
4. Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid, how to use a fire extinguisher, and how and when to tum off water, gas, and electricity in your home.
5. Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number.
6. Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days.
7. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffel bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunlcof your car. A disaster supplies kit should include a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food which will not spoil; o:p.e change of clothing and footwear per person; one blanket or sleeping bag per person; a first-aid kit (including prescription medicines); emergency tools (including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries); an extra set of car keys and cash; and, special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.
Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Test and recharge your fire extinguishers according to the manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months.
For more information, contact the __________ County EMA or the nearest
American Red Cross chapter.
########
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OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/

t 3 NEWS RELEASE)
Tornado Safety Drills Save Lives, Protect Students

The

County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), the National

~~~~~~~~

Weather Service (NWS), and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) urge all

schools to develop "tornado preparedness" plans and conduct periodic drills. A tornado drill

requires different actions than a fire drill.

Remember, a tornado watch means tornadoes are expected to develop. Listen for the

latest weather reports. Even if the sky is blue, it is important to recognize that tornadoes can

develop very rapidly.

A tornado warning means a tornado has actually been sighted or indicated by weather

radar. Immediately seek inside shelter in a storm cellar or the center interior of a reinforced

building. Stay away from windows. Get under a heavy table or curl up so that your head and

eyes are protected.

School basements should be used as tornado shelters. Schools without them should use

interior hallways on the ground floor, which are not parallel to the tornado's usual southwest to

northeast path.

Never use gymnasiums, auditoriums or other large, open rooms with wide, free-span

roofs as shelters. Both teachers and students should be taught where their designated shelter areas

are located and periodic drills should be conducted.

School administrators should establish procedures governing use or non-use of school

buses during tornado watches and warnings. Children are safer at school than they are in buses

during tornado watches and warnings.

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School buses can be easily overturned by tornado winds. If a school bus is caught in the

open when a tornado is approaching, the children should be escorted to a nearby ditch or ravine

where they should lie face down with their hands over their heads for protection. They should be

far enough away from the bus so it cannot topple on them. School bus drivers should be

regularly drilled in tornado safety procedures.

During a tornado watch, certain teachers or other school staff members should be

designated to monitor commercial radio or TV stations for tornado information, even if the

school has a NOAA weather radio.

A special alarm should be designated to indicate a tornado has been sighted and is

approaching. A backup alarm should be planned in case electrical power fails -- perhaps a

battery-powered bullhorn, a hand-cranked siren, or an old-fashioned hand-swung bell. -

Certain teachers should be designated to round-up children on playgrounds or from other

outdoor areas during a tornado warning. Children attending classes in areas of weak

construction, such as portable or temporary classrooms, should be escorted to sturdier buildings,

or to predetermined ditches, culverts, or ravines. They should then be instructed to lie face down

with their hands over their heads. Most tornado deaths are the result of head injuries.

When children are assembled in school basements or interior hallways during a tornado

drill or warnihg, they should be instructed to respond to specific commands to assume protective

postures, such as facing interior walls, when danger is imminent. A command such as

"Everybody down!" can be instantly understood and must be immediately obeyed. Illustrations

showing protective positions should be posted on bulletin boards.

School district officials planning new buildings or additions should keep tornadoes in

mind when setting construction standards so adequate tornado protection for students will be

provided from the start of construction.

If you have questions concerning tornado preparedness at a particular school, please

contact the

County EMA at ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-

########

1/25/99

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/

3>---(-:::::a3NEWS

5
RELEASE

}

Establish a Tornado "Watch, Warning Network" For the Safety of Your Community

Since tornado damage or destruction is usually concentrated in relatively small areas;
much of the responsibility of warning, evacuation, and sheltering falls upon individual citizens
and local communities, reports Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) Director
Gary W. McConnell. Tornado detection requires a complex network of storm spotters and reporting procedures
within each "tornado watch" area. Each network should be organized around the specific needs
of the area being served. For a community to establish an effective tornado "watch-and-warning network," the first
step is to set up a warning center. This should be open at all times to receive reports from "storm
spotters" and the National Weather Service.
Secondly, establish a "skywarn observer system" through which all citizens can report to
the community warning center. Also, a system of warning signals must be developed. Keep the
network functional through trial runs and public reminders. In the event of threatening weather, every citizen should know the exact meaning of the
following weather terms with regard to tornadoes: 1. A tornado watch means tornadoes are expected to develop. Keep a battery-powered radio or
television set nearby and listen for the latest weather reports, even if the sky is blue. Tornadoes develop very rapidly. 2. A tornado warning means a tornado has actually been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Immediately seek inside shelter in a storm cellar or the center interior of a reinforced building. Stay away from windows. Get under a heavy table or curl up so that your head and eyes are protected. Keep a battery-powered radio or television nearby and listen for further advisories.

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Where to Evacuate .
Everyone should also know exactly what to do and where to go when a tornado threatens.
1. If you are in an office building during a tornado warning, go to an interior hallway on the lowest floor, or to the designated shelter area.
2. In homes, the basement offers the greatest protection. Seek shelter under sturdy furniture if possible. In homes without basements, take cover in the part of the house on the lowest floor in a small room, such as a closet or bathroom, or under heavy furniture. Stay away from windows.
3. In shopping centers, go to a sheltered area on the lowest floor. Do not stay in your vehicle.
4. Mobile homes are easily overturned by strong winds and should be immediately evacuated when strong winds or tornadoes are forecast. Mobile home parks should have community storm shelters. If there is no shelter nearby, leave the mobile home park and take cover on low, protected ground.
5. Tornadoes are only one of the lethal aspects of a thunderstorm. Lightning associated with thunderstorms usually causes more deaths each.year than tornadoes.
What to Do
1. If you are in an indoor shelter, stay away from electrical appliances while the storm is overhead.
2. If you are forced to take shelter outdoors, stay far away from conductive objects such as single trees and power poles.
3. Flash flooding may also occur as a result of heavy thunderstorms and tornadoes. Consider this factor when selecting your shelter.
4. If you live in a flash flood area, stay tuned to your radio or television station for information on possible flooding.
5. If you take shelter in a ditch during a tornado warning, be alert to rapidly rising water and move to a safer location as soon as possible.
########
1125199

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/
~---t-::::::a3NEWS RELEASE.}

Hurricanes -A Major Threat to Georgia

Although it has been decades since Georgia took a direct hit from a hurricane and the

season for hurricanes does not start until June 1, Director - - - - - - - - - - - - -of the --~---- County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) urges local residents to get

prepared now, before the hurricane season arrives.

"Now is the time to make plans to have an ample supply of nonperishable food, a first

aid kit, fire extinguisher, battery-powered radio, flashlights and extra batteries, " - - - - - insists.

It is important for everyone to learn the exact meanings of weather terms and to know

exactly what to do in the event such weather advisories are issued.

A hurricane watch will be issued when a hurricane may strike the Georgia coast within

24 to 36 hours. When a watch is issued:

1. Keep posted on the storm's progress by staying tuned to local radio, television, or NOAA weather-radio stations. You will be advised of weather conditions and emergency situations.
2. Check and replenish your supply of nonperishable foods (such as canned goods), special medicines, and prescription drugs.
3. Obtain fresh, extra batteries for radios and flashlights. 4. Fill your vehicle's fuel tank to capacity. Gas stations are often forced to shut down during
violent storms and gasoline cannot be pumped if there is an electrical power outage. 5. If you live in a mobile home, make certain it is properly secured -- "tied down." Also,
prepare to leave your mobile home quickly. They are very vulnerable during storms. 6. Secure all outdoor furniture and other loose items which could become lethal missiles if
airborne. 7. Tape, board, and shutter windows. Wedge or secure sliding glass doors to prevent them
from being lifted off their tracks. 8. Make certain you have a first aid kit, a lantern and fuel, and a supply of candles and
waterproof matches. 9. Anchor small boats and move to safe shelter.

1125199

(more)

A hurricane warning will be issued when a hurricane is expected to strike the Georgia coast within 24 hours or less. When a warning is issued: 1. Follow all instructions issued by local officials. Stay tuned to local radio or television
stations for official weather advisories, bulletins, or instructions. 2. If evacuation is ordered, leave quickly and, preferably, during daylight hours.
Remember, traffic will become more congested as the storm moves closer. 3. Leave all areas which could be affected by storm tides, "storm surge" flooding, or inland
or stream flooding. 4. Leave all mobile homes for more substantial shelter. 5. Drive carefully out of all dangerous areas. 6. Be alert to the possibility of tornadoes, lightning, or other "killing elements" of a
hurricane.
If evacuation is not ordered in your area, and you choose to remain at home, in your apartment, or at your place of business, seek protection in the "downwind" side of your building. Also, fill containers with drinking water which will last for several days.
Once the hurricane has reached yourarea, remain indoors and stay away from windows. Blowing debris can injure and kill.
Also, look for-,the "eye" of the hurricane. If the storm center passes directly overhead, there will be a lull in the wind lasting from a few minutes to a half-hour, or so. On the other side of the "eye" the winds will once again increase to hurricane force and will rotate in the opposite direction.
If the "eye" of the hurricane should pass over your area, be aware that the improved weather conditions are temporary. _________ stressed the importance of knowing evacuation routes well in advance of a hurricane or flood. This especially applies to residents of Georgia's coastal areas and counties.
To obtain more information on hurricane preparedness and the family preparedness program, contact the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ County EMA at-----~------
########
1/25/99

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000
Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/

t

NEWS

RELEASE

l
J

Flood Safety Tips

Perhaps the biggest cause of flood-related deaths and injuries is a lack of understanding by those affected of the severity and danger involved in floods and flash floods. The following tips can help protect you during flood events.
Listen continually to local radio, television, or a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) radio station for updated weather reports and possible instructions. This is essential to your protection. Also, learn the meaning of weather terms.
A flash flood watch means heavy rains may result in flash flooding in a specified area. Be prepared for a possible flood emergency that will require immediate action. A flash flood warning means that flash flooding is occurring or is imminent in specified areas. Take action immediately! Move to safe ground or to a protected location.
Preparation and Proper Response Saves Lives
1. Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to a local emergency alert system (EAS) station and follow instructions.
2. Evacuate if instructed to do so. 3. Act quickly to save yourself and those who depend on you. You may have only seconds to
act. 4. If you evacuate your home or move to a higher floor level or to the roof, take warm
clothing, a flashlight, and a portable radio, with you. 5. Do not attempt to swim for safety. Wait for help -- even if you have to remain on the roof
for some time. 6. If you are driving, do not drive through waters of unknown depth. About half of all
flood or flash flood victims perish in cars or other vehicles.

To obtain additional information on floods, flash floods or flood insurance, you may contact

the

County Emergency Management Office (EMA) office at

or

call the National Flood Insurance Program toll-free at 1-800-638-6620.

1/25/99

########

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000
Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/
Every year, more than 200,000 Americans are driven from their homes by floods. Returning home after floodwaters recede can be a devastating and potentially hazardous venture. Follow these sensible suggestions when returning home after the flood:
When returning to a home that has been flooded use extreme caution, wear sturdy__ shoes and use flashlights when examining the building. Watch out for animals, bugs, and snakes that may have come into your home with the floodwater. Do not handle live electrical equipment in wet areas. Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being return to service. Report broken utility lines to the proper authorities. If the pilot light went out on your natural gas furnace, hot water heater or stove, have it re-lit by a professional.
If your water is provided by a community water system that lost pressure during or following the flood, do not drink the water until it is determined to be safe. I f your water is provided by a well and the well head was covered by floodwaters, you should have the water tested by Public Health officials and determined safe. If treatment is necessary, follow Public Health officials' directions.
If drinking water is not available, locate other sources of safe liquids, such as juices, soft drinks, or other beverages not exposed to floodwaters. Other sources include water stored in clean, covered containers or water stored in a bathtub.
When electricity is lost for several hours, frozen and refrigerated food may not be safe to eat. Do not refreeze thawed food. Throw away all food that has been under water, except canned foods. Cans of foods should be washed and sanitized before opening. All food that cannot be saved should be double-bagged for normal disposal or buried at least two feet deep.
Be particularly car~ful to disinfect all surfaces that come into contact with food, i.e., countertops; pantry shelves, etc.
If there has been a back-flow of sewage into the home, wear rubber boots and gloves during cleanup. Remove and discard items that cannot be disinfected.
Pump out flooded basements gradually to avoid structural damage.
Stay out of buildings if floodwaters remain around the building.
In warm weather, empty water out of birdbaths, flower pots, tires and other containers to reduce mosquito infestation.
########
1/25/99

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/
J ~--t--::::::ai3NEWS RELEASE
Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999 Public Service Announcements (Radio)
Floods and Flash Floods
L Floods and flash floods can happen suddenly and are extremely deadly. Learn what to expect and how to safely react before a flood or flash flood
occurs. Call the - - - - - - - - - - County Emergency Management
Agency at - - - - - - for more information. ########
2. Flash flood waves move incredibly fast and are extremely deadly. If you hear a flash flood warning, act quickly. You may have only a few seconds_to save yourself and the ones you love. Contact the
---------~
County Emergency Management Agency at ___________ for information on flash floods.
######## 3. Over the past 21 years, 59 Georgians have lost their lives in floods and flash
floods. Two of these deaths occurred in March 1998. Learn what to expect and how to safely react when forecasters issue a flood watch or warning. Call the - - - - - - - - - - - - - County Emergency Management Agency at __________ for more information.
########

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/

3

5

( NEWS RELEASE )

Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999 Public Service Announcements (Radio)

Tornadoes
1. If a tornado approaches your area, stay away from windows. Flying glass can kill.

Learn more about .these killer storms and what you can do to survive them. Call the

nearest office of the national weather service at

or the

County Emergency Management Agency at - - - - - - - today. Remember, a tornado watch means that a tornado is possible. A tornado warning means that a

storm has actually been sighted.

########

2. If tornado conditions develop in - - - - - - - - -, stay tuned to this station for weather advisories. To learn more about tornadoes, call the - - - - - - County Emergency Management Agency at - - - - - - - - -. Remember, a tornado watch means that a tornado is possible. A tornado warning means that a

storm has been sighted.

#########

3. If a tornado threatens your area, leave your vehicle or mobile home immediately.

Take shelter in a basement, an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of a

building, a ditch, or ravine. Stay down and protect your head. This message is a

public service of this station and the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ County Emergency

Management Agency.

########

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 18055 Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
TEL: (404) 635-7000 Visit our web site @ www.state.ga.us/GEMA/
s;---l-:=.3NEWS RELEASE J
Severe Weather Awareness Week 1999 Public Service Announcements (Radio)
Lightning
1. Lightning is a leading weather killer in Georgia. A bolt of lightning can
contain up to 100 million volts of electricity. If an approaching storm
contains lightning, would you know what safety rules to follow? For
information on lightning safety rules, please call the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
County Emergency Management Agency at _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
########
2. When a thunderstorm threatens, lightning may occur. During a
thunderstorm, stay away from tall, isolated trees, or metal equipment. Seek
shelter in a low area. To learn more about lightning safety, call the _ __
County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) at _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
########