Edmond Emergency Management Suggestions for Winter Weather Preparations
Tips for Preparing for Severe Weather Events
Edmond's Emergency Management department would like to offer the following suggestions to help residents as they recover from the past severe weather event and prepare for the next event:As you recover:
- Capture information on damage from the recent ice storm before cleaning up. Take photos, make notes, and contact insurance representatives.
- Take stock of emergency supplies.
- Note any items you may have needed this past week and didn't have on hand.
As you prepare for the next winter weather event:
- Put together an emergency preparedness kit, including items for all members of the family. The kit should include enough supplies to last for a minimum of three days. A shovel, salt for the walkway, blankets and extra food and water are items to include in the kit as well as extra medicines, and baby or family care items.
- Create a response plan.
- Stay informed about the upcoming weather and stay connected to friends and family members who may need assistance. Everyone should have a battery powered NOAA "all hazards" radio for emergency notifications and weather information.
- When traveling, make sure to have a full tank of gas. File a travel plan with a family member or friend. Tell them where you are going, what route you will take, and when you expect to be there. When you arrive, let them know you are safe.
Take an emergency kit with you, including warm clothes, a blanket or sleeping bag, water and high-energy snacks, a flashlight with extra batteries and a first aid kit. Take a cell phone or portable radio and make sure they are charged and that you have additional batteries for family radios and citizen band radios.
To help with preparedness planning, check out the "Personal Emergency Planning Book" on the city's website at edmondok.com or visit ready.gov.
Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management Call Center
The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management has set up a call center for individuals and businesses to report damage from the ice storm. The phone number is 866-560-7584.
The phone line will open Thursday and will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. No end date has been established. The length of time the call bank will be open depends on the response from the public.
Issued: December 13, 2007
