Informational program runs Feb. 6-10

To help residents prepare for the possibility of a disaster, the Forsyth County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), in partnership with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency and the National Weather Service, is encouraging all residents to participate in Severe Weather Preparedness Week, Feb. 6-10.

“The seasonal changing of winter to spring always brings with it a risk for high winds, thunderstorms and tornadoes, and this year will be no different. Having a plan and being prepared well before any severe weather could prove to be lifesaving,” said Emergency Management Agency Interim Director Joey Smith. “We hope residents will take the time this week to create new or update any existing family emergency plans.”

Each day of the week will focus on a different severe weather threat and how to prepare.

- Monday, Feb. 6 – Family Preparedness/NOAA Weather Radio and Wireless Emergency Alerts

- Tuesday, Feb. 7 – Thunderstorm Safety

- Wednesday, Feb. 8 – Tornado Safety

- Thursday, Feb. 9 – Lightning Safety

- Friday, Feb. 10 – Flood Safety

Information and tips on how to prepare for severe weather emergencies such as tornadoes, floods and thunderstorms can be found throughout the week on the county’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

UPDATE: The planned severe weather siren test scheduled for 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 8, was cancelled due to poor weather conditions to avoid confusion with an actual severe weather event. In the event of a tornado warning, the County’s outdoor severe weather sirens will sound to help notify those outside of the approaching danger..

The backup date is Friday, Feb. 10. For a list of siren locations, visit the EMA department webpage at forsythco.com.

“Severe Weather Preparedness Week also gives Forsyth County residents the perfect opportunity to sign up for emergency alerts,” said Smith.

Residents can elect to receive time-sensitive emergency notifications via email, telephone call and/or text message. There is no cost to sign up to receive these alerts, but phone usage or text charges may apply.

Alerts are sent out for three severe weather situations (severe thunderstorm, flash flood and tornado warnings) as well as for emergency situations such as public safety issues or important water notifications from the Forsyth County Water and Sewer Department. To sign up, click here.

For more information about Sever Weather Preparedness Week and emergency preparedness, contact Forsyth County EMA at EMA@forsythco.com.