GFD Home Safety

GAMEWELL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

LENOIR, NORTH CAROLINA

HOME SAFETY TIPS

" Preparedness Does Save Lives"

Having an emergency plan can reduce death and injury. Here are some tips for what to do before severe weather strikes and warnings are issued:

	Develop an emergency plan for you and your family.
	Prepare a disaster supply kit.
	Have frequent drills.
	Know your location in relationship to the movement of storms.
	Have a NOAA Weather Radio with battery back-up.

Your Family's emergency supply kit should include:

	Water, about one gallon per person per day.
	Enough canned or non-perishable food for the family to last three to seven days.
	A hand operated can opener.
	Battery powered radio and extra fresh batteries.
	Flashlight and extra batteries.
	First aid kit.
	Necessary prescription drugs.
	Some extra cash.
	Games and reading materials to help pass the time.

When a Tornado Warning is issued, you should:

	Stay tuned to a local radio or television station or listen to NOAA Weather Radio.
	Secure any loose objects outdoors or move them inside.
	Survey your immediate surroundings for the most suitable shelter.
	Be alert for changing weather conditions. Tornadoes can occur in conjunction with thunderstorms that also produce severe hail.

If a TORNADO WARNING is issued, or you have an indication that a tornado may be approaching, TAKE COVER IMMEDIATELY. The safest place in a home is in an interior room on the lowest level of the home, away from windows. This may be a bathroom, interior closet or under a stairway. People in tall building should take shelter in interior hallways, away from windows. Stay away from vehicles. Do not try to outrun a tornado. Leave your mobile home and seek shelter in a sturdy building, or low-lying area. If outside, take cover in a ditch, but be mindful of possible flooding.

For more information about severe weather please visit one of the following web sites:

www.ncem.org N C Emergency Management

www.nws.noaa.gov U S National Weather Service

www.redcross.org American Red Cross

Links for Home Safety

www.ncem.org/Mitigation/home_protection.htm N.C. Emergency Management Home Protection