Governor Deal Proclaims Dec. 5-9 as Winter Weather Preparedness Week

( ATLANTA) – Governor Nathan Deal proclaimed the week of Dec. 5-9 as Winter Weather Preparedness Week. During this week, Georgians are encouraged to prepare for winter weather by replenishing necessary supplies, making a plan and learning about the different types of winter weather.

Winter Weather Preparedness Week focuses on a different preparedness topic each day. The GEMHSA Ready Georgia campaign urges residents to learn about different ways to prepare throughout the week:

· Monday, Dec. 5: Winter Weather in Georgia – Despite its southern location, our state is no stranger to the dangers of winter weather. Residents should prepare for a range of winter precipitation including snow, ice and freezing rain.

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Tuesday, Dec. 6: Winter Weather Terminology – A winter storm watch means that significant winter weather is possible, but not imminent. A winter weather advisory means that winter weather is imminent and may cause inconveniences. A winter storm warning means that a significant winter storm is imminent and is a threat to life and property.

· Wednesday, Dec. 7: Preparing for a Winter Storm –Taking action weeks or even months ahead of a storm can make an enormous difference when winter weather hits. Prepare a Ready kit and make a plan for winter weather now.

· Thursday, Dec. 8: What to Do During a Winter Storm – Stay safe by learning how to drive in winter conditions and how to survive if caught outside during a storm.

· Friday, Dec. 9: Winter Weather Outlook – Take a look at what’s expected this winter.

GEMHSA’s Ready Georgia campaign offers these tips for Georgians to make sure they’re prepared for conditions this winter:

· Prepare a Ready kit of emergency supplies for your home. Include at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food, water, a flashlight with extra batteries, a NOAA Weather Radio, adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm, as well as additional supplies for the unique needs of your family, such as medication or pet Ready kits.

Keep an extra Ready kit in the trunk of your car. In addition to the basic essentials, consider adding a portable cell phone charger, ice scraper, extra blanket, sand for traction and jumper cables.

· Create an emergency communications plan so family members will know who to contact if separated during a storm. Designate at least one out-of-town contact who all family members can call. Determine a way to let family and friends know you’re OK if the power goes out. Create a customized plan for your family using the Ready Georgia website or mobile app.

· Make sure you have a way to stay informed about winter weather. Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio or other battery-operated radio to monitor changing winter weather conditions. Download the Ready Georgia mobile app, which includes geo- targeted severe weather and emergency alerts that will notify your phones before disasters strike.

· Winterize your vehicle and keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent your fuel line from freezing.

· Winterize your home by placing weather stripping around doors and windows. During cold weather, allow faucets to drip, and open cabinet doors to let heat reach uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

· Identify an alternate heat source, like a fireplace or woodburning stove, and stock sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or woodburning stove.

Georgians looking for more information on how to be informed, make a plan and build a kit for winter weather can contact their local EMA or visit Ready Georgia’s website. For preparedness on the go, download the Ready Georgia mobile app.