(COLUMBUS, OHIO) – To raise awareness of the hazardous side of spring weather, Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security (FCEM&HS) will recognize Ohio’s Spring Severe Weather Awareness Week, March 20 – 26, 2016. Residents are reminded to prepare for severe weather before it happens. Hazardous conditions can occur anytime and anywhere without advance notice.
As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, FCEM&HS urges the community to participate in the annual Statewide Tornado Drill on Wednesday, March 23, 2016 at 9:50 a.m. At that time, the Franklin County Outdoor Warning Siren System will be activated one time for three minutes – a longer tone than in the regular Wednesday noon tests. The test tone will be the same “tornado warning” tone which would be used in an actual tornado warning.
FCEM&HS encourages residents follow these important safety procedures:
Know the Risk – Learn and understand the different types of weather hazards facing Franklin County. The top hazards can be found on the agency website at www.fcemhs.org.
Know the Weather Terms – Know the difference between storm watches and storm warnings. For example, a tornado watch is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the area. A tornado warning is issued by the NWS when a tornado has been detected by radar or sighted by storm spotters.
Receive Notifications - Register for ALERT Franklin County at www.alertfranklincounty.org to receive severe weather alerts and important information. Residents are encouraged to have a NOAA Weather Radio and tune into TV or radio newscasts for up-to-date weather information.
Have a Plan/Build a Kit - Develop and practice an emergency plan with your family and include your pets. Know how to communicate and have a designated safe meeting place. Build an emergency supply kit. Include enough food, water other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours.