The Jefferson County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (JCHSEM) offers several tips for staying safe when severe weather occurs:
- Sign up for local emergency notifications (link below)
- Understand weather alerts
- Know what to bring to a shelter
- Have an emergency supply kit
Jefferson County residents can stay informed by receiving real-time emergency alerts directly on their mobile devices through Everbridge, the county’s emergency alerting system. Everbridge sends critical warnings for flooding, tornadoes, severe storms, and other hazards. Alerts are delivered to your phone as a call, text, and email.
Registration Link (click here)
Watch vs. Warning, What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between a Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is essential for taking the right action at the right time.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in or near the watch area. When a watch is issued, stay alert, monitor the forecast, and prepare to take action if necessary. Locate emergency supplies like flashlights, and identify a safe place to shelter if conditions worsen. Stay informed through Everbridge alerts and a NOAA Weather Radio.
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means that severe weather is occurring or will occur shortly. According to the National Weather Service, a storm is classified as a severe thunderstorm when it produces hail one inch in diameter or larger and/or wind gusts of 58 mph or higher. Warnings mean there is a serious threat to life and property to those in the path of the storm. If a warning is issued, take immediate action by seeking shelter in a sturdy building.
For more information on how to prepare for severe weather, JCHSEM recommends the website Ready.gov.
What Items to Bring to a Shelter
Severe storms can lead to sudden evacuations. Knowing what to bring to a shelter can help keep you safe and comfortable. The American Red Cross encourages people who plan to stay in a Red Cross shelter to bring the following items for each member of their family: prescription and emergency medication, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, important documents and other comfort items. Additionally, special items for children and infants, such as diapers, formulas and toys, should be brought, along with other items for family members who may have other needs.
Recommendations For An Emergency Supply Kit
The following items are recommended by the American Red Cross and Ready.gov to include in a basic emergency supply kit. Store these essential items in an easy to carry container.
- Water
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio
- First aid kit
- Medications
- Extra batteries
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Family and emergency contact information
- Local maps
- Phone charger
- Whistle
- Blanket
- Copies of important documents
- Extra cash
- Dust mask
- Manual can opener
Residents Can Volunteer & Get Training
“Residents interested in supporting future disaster response efforts are encouraged to volunteer with the American Red Cross,” said Jesse Hott, Disaster Program Manager at the American Red Cross. “The organization offers free training for a variety of roles, many of which can be completed online. With the number of disasters that take place, the Red Cross is actively seeking to expand its volunteer base. [Nationwide, the Red Cross aims] to recruit 30,000 individuals for national deployments and 18,000 local responders by 2030. To volunteer with the Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org, sign up, complete the training, and be ready to serve your community when help is needed most.”
For questions or more information, contact the Jefferson County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at jchsem@jeffersoncountywv.org or 304-724-8914.
By Staff Contributor