September is National Preparedness Month

Editor,

The month of September is National Preparedness Month; this year’s theme is “Be Disaster Aware, Take action to prepare”. This year there will be a theme for each week, week one, How to reconnect with Family after a Disaster. Week two, know how to plan for specific needs before a disaster. Week three, How to build an Emergency kit. Week four and five, How to practice for an Emergency, more information is available at http://www.ready.gov/september.

With winter fast approaching remember these terms used by the National Weather Service:

Advisory is issued when conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences that may be hazardous. If caution is used, these situations should not be life-threatening

Winter Storm Watch is issued when severe winter conditions, such as heavy snow and/or ice, may affect your area but the timing and location are still uncertain. A winter storm watch is issued 12 to 36 hours in advance of a potential severe storm. Monitor alerts, check your emergency supplies, and gather any items you may need if you lose power.

Winter storm warning is issued when 4 or more inches of snow or sleet are expected in the next 12 hours, or 6 or more inches in 24 hours, or ¼ inch or more of ice accumulation is expected. The National Weather Service may also issue a warning if the storm is expected to hit during high-traffic times. Stay indoors, and keep warm and dry, and minimize driving.

John Zeiger

Carbon County Emergency Management