EDITORIAL: Use this time to prep for severe weather

Published 6:10 pm Monday, April 13, 2020

A series of severe storms recently swept through parts of Georgia and other southern states. More stores are in the forecast for the southern region later this week. While we may not be in the eye of the storm, now is an excellent time to make sure that we are prepared for severe weather while we are sheltering in place. Georgia Power offers the following tips for customers to be prepared and stay informed as bad weather approaches. 

 • Before a Storm: Stay aware and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit, unplug major appliances and charge cell phones in case you lose power.

 • During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity — appliances, metal objects and water.

 • After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off power lines or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage.

Do you get severe weather alerts on your cellphone?

Preparation is key to staying safe as weather circumstances can change in an instant. 

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere, and with spring’s arrival, the potential for violent weather increases. 

It’s important to have a way to keep up to date on the latest developments, either through weather apps, radio or through the county alert system. 

Every household should also have on hand a list of emergency contacts in the event of severe weather alerts. 

Severe weather can happen at any time, anywhere, and with spring here, the potential for violent weather increases. 

While we are all at home, now is a great time to prepare.