FEMA Closely Monitors Tropical Storm Noel

October 30, 2007

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is monitoring Tropical Storm Noel, which is moving westward just south of Florida. FEMA has activated its Regional Response Coordination Center in Thomasville, Georgia, and is coordinating with federal, state and local governments to identify resources and activate plans in preparation for possible heavy rain and high winds.

As the federal, state and local governments take their steps to prepare, citizens are urged to do the same. There are steps individuals can take now to protect their businesses and families in the event of dangerous weather.

The first step is to begin by listening for announcements from local emergency managers regarding evacuation orders, sheltering locations and personal readiness actions.

Emergency disaster kits should be checked to ensure they include necessary items to sustain family members for at least three days, whether they need to evacuate or shelter in place. Disaster Kits and evacuation plans should also be prepared for pets. It is also a good time to map out evacuation routes if they haven’t yet been identified.
Learn the warning signs.
Consider purchasing a NOAA weather radio. These radios broadcast National Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other post-event information for all types of hazards, both natural (such as earthquakes and volcano activity) and environmental (such as chemical releases or oil spills), 24 hours a day.

To protect your business and home from the dangers associated with the various types of severe weather, consider taking some of the following measures before severe storms strike:

Securely anchor manufactured businesses and homes to concrete foundations.
Install backflow valves in waste lines to prevent contamination.
Remove old shingles and adding more nails to roof boards.
Elevate utilities, such as fuse boxes, heating and ventilating equipment, above known flood levels.
Build a safe room.

— FEMA

Contingency Planning