A statewide emergency communications drill will be conducted on May 3rd at approximately 1:15. The five NWS offices serving the State will originate the generic emergency message to test communications networks that are in place.
As evidenced by this week’s snow storm and subsequent power outages, Smith and Santulli want to remind County residents how important it is to be aware and to plan ahead for emergencies. “Emergencies and disasters can happen anywhere and anytime, so we hope Chemung County residents will take an active role in the preparedness of their families, businesses, and their community,” said Smith.
“It is important for residents to plan ahead and get needed supplies before the emergency. Being prepared reduces anxiety and confusion. Rather than waiting until the event is upon us to run to the store for supplies it is better to plan ahead,” added Santulli.
The following is a list of items all residents and businesses should have available and actions you can take to protect your family during an emergency:
* Flashlight and extra batteries.
* Battery-powered portable radio or NOAA Weather Radio to receive emergency information. Have extra batteries. The radio will allow you to listen to weather forecasts, information, and other emergency broadcasts by local authorities.
* Three day supply of food. High-energy food, such as dried fruit or candy, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration is best. Also stock an emergency supply of bottled water one gallon per person per day.
* Homeowners who depend on well water should draw an emergency water supply in case power to their electric water pumps is interrupted.
* If you have an emergency power source, learn how to use it properly and use it sparingly if power is expected to be off for an extended period.
* Have at least one traditional analog phone or cell phone in your home that does not require electricity to operate. Cordless phones and phones with built-in answering machines will not operate during a power outage.
* If you anticipate an extended outage, consider moving yourself and your family — especially those with special needs — to an alternate location.
* To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high keep cool by drinking plenty of liquids, replacing salt and minerals lost through sweating, wear lightweight clothing and sunscreen, and schedule outdoor activities carefully. Seek out an air conditioned facility to cool yourself. Being in air conditioning for only a few hours can help your body stay cooler when you return to the heat. Take a cool shower.
* Consider checking on others who may benefit from your assistance.
* Stay away from downed or sagging power lines, and do not touch anything that is on or near a power line (i.e., trees or tree limbs, cars, ladders). Consider all downed power lines and anything touching them energized and DANGEROUS! Report the problem to your power company.
* Don't open freezers and refrigerators any more than absolutely necessary. Opening these appliances will allow food to thaw more quickly.
* During severe weather or power outages, turn off as many appliances and electronics as possible. This will reduce the potential for damage or fire. After the power is restored, wait 5 to 10 minutes before turning them back on.
* After the power has been restored replenish your supplies of batteries, bottled water and non- perishable food items in preparation for future storms and outages.
For more information on how to prepare for an emergency visit the Fire and Emergency Management Page on www.chemungcounty.com and click on Public Awareness and Preparedness.
The 24th annual Severe Weather Awareness week is sponsored by the National Weather Service (NWS) in partnership with the New York State Disaster Preparedness Commission and the New York State Emergency Management Association and the New York State Broadcasters Association.
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