Be Informed! Know How You Will Receive Warning of an Emergency

September is National Preparedness Month and that means that it’s time to get your home, school, church or business ready in case of an emergency.  If you take some simple steps now, you will be better prepared for unexpected disasters and emergencies.

During National Preparedness Month, the City of Southlake Office of Emergency Management has presented a series of articles providing helpful tips on how to prepare for the worst. This month, we’ve learned how to get a kit and how to make a plan. We conclude National Preparedness Month today by discussing the need to be informed.

You never know when an emergency will happen. That’s why it is vitally important to be informed and “be ready” when disaster strikes.  All emergencies and natural disasters are not created equal, but there are ways that you can help yourself receive notification that you need to take action. The City of Southlake has five outdoor warning sirens located across the City. The purpose of the sirens are to notify people that may be outside that they need to go inside and find out what is going on. Due to the way sound travels and the construction of many Southlake homes, it is likely that you won’t be able to hear the sirens inside. That’s why it is extremely important to have multiple means of receiving warning.

Consider investing in a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radio to stay aware of severe weather events. Also make sure to monitor local television and radio, as well as the Southlake DPS Facebook and Twitter pages. Finally, consider signing up for the City’s Connect CTY program so that you can receive emergency alerts from the City via telephone and e-mail.

When you are informed of what is going on, you can make better decisions to keep your family safe. For more information on how to be informed, visit www.CityofSouthlake.com/Prepare.