Getting prepared for weather‐related disasters

Step 1: Be informed

Sign up for severe weather warnings on Polkgeorgia.org, get a weather app on your phone; also, learn more about different kinds of disasters on the Ready. Georgia website.

Step 2: Plan Ahead

Use their website to make a custom plan for your family – including those who might not be able to protect themselves, like children, seniors and pets. (Ready.ga.gov)

Step 3: Avoid issues

Be aware of what’s happening around you, Polk County Public Safety Director Randy Lacey said. Avoid driving during dangerous conditions when roads are not clear because of storms, don’t travel through flood waters, and stay clear of snow and ice conditions if possible.

Step 4: Build a kit

If power, water, gas and more were cut off right now, could you survive? You should have at least these items gathered together for emergency purposes:

Things you will need:

Water. One gallon per person per day, for at least 3 days, for drinking and hygiene Food. At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food Click here for recipe ideas featuring non-perishable foods, manual tools and alternative heating sources. Can opener. For food, if kit contains canned food Radio. Battery- powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert, and extra batteries for both Emergency charger for mobile devices Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Whistle. To signal for help Face mask. To help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties. For personal hygiene Wrench or pliers. To turn off utilities Local maps Prescription medications and glasses Infant formula and diapers Pet food, extra water, pet supplies, toys and vaccination forms. Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container Cash or traveler’s checks and change Emergency reference material such as a first aid book Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider adding bedding in cold weather. Complete change of clothing. Include a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider adding clothing in cold weather. Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper Fire extinguisher Matches in a waterproof container Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items Mess kits, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils and paper towels Paper and pencil Books , games, puzzles or other activities for children.