Macomb Offers Tips for Severe Weather Awareness Week

The state has designated April 7-13 as Severe Weather Awareness Week and the Macomb County Office of Emergency Management is offering tips for residents to be prepared for hazardous weather.

“There’s no way to know exactly where severe weather will strike, and when it does come your way, you may not have much time to get ready,” said Vicky Wolber, Macomb County Emergency Management director, said in a release. “The best defense against severe weather is to be prepared and know how to react to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

The county urges residents, businesses and government agencies to prepare by becoming aware of emergency alert signals, develop a plan of action and practice emergency response procedures while learning about severe weather threats.

Alert systems include:

• Emergency Alert System (EAS)
• Television
• Radio 
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alert radios
• Public and private companies also allow for these alerts and warnings to be sent electronically through cell phones. 

When residents hear an outdoor siren or receiving an alert message, residents should immediately go indoors, turn on the radio or television and follow any instructions that are being provided for those in the affected area, according to the county.

Create a plan

The county also recommends residents to create an emergency plan  to protect family, friends, employees, their homes and business. This would include identifying areas within a residence and place of business that may be utilized as a shelter from severe weather and other hazards, the county recommends.

A basement is always a preferred severe weather shelter location. Homeowners should sit against a basement wall for additional protection and, if possible, have a sturdy structure to sit under such as a flight of stairs or a heavy table for protection from debris.

If residents don't have a basement, the county recommends going to the smallest, most interior room of your residence or office. An interior closet may provide more protection than a room with outside walls. 

The Macomb County Office of Emergency Management also has developed a guide for residents and business owners to assist with pre-planning activities such as preparing an emergency supplies kit, enacting evacuation tips and making an emergency communications plan. It is available at Macomb County Michigan: OEM  or by calling (586) 469-5270.