On January 23, ABC News mistakenly reported that individuals can sign up for weather alerts through FEMA. We’ve seen a lot of interest from the public following that report and we wanted to correct that point: FEMA does not send out alerts as this is a local responsibility. When natural disasters strike, it is important to follow the advice of state and local officials, and so here is some helpful information on ways you can get information and receive alerts.
- Talk to your local emergency management agency. There are actions that should be taken before, during and after an event that are unique to each hazard. Identify the hazards that have happened, or could happen, in your area and plan for the unique actions for each. Local emergency management offices can help identify the hazards in your area and outline the local plans and recommendations for each. You can also find out from your local government emergency management office how you will be notified for disasters.
- Check on alert and warning systems for workplace, schools and other locations. The methods of getting your attention vary from community to community. One common method is to broadcast via emergency radio and TV broadcasts. You might hear a special siren, or get a telephone call, or in rare circumstances, volunteers and emergency workers may go door to door.
- Listen to NOAA weather radio and local news to monitor for severe weather updates and warnings. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service remains the source for official weather watches and warnings. You can sign up to receive their email weather alerts at weather.gov.
In addition, there are some other things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling a supply kit and developing a family emergency plan. You can get more information on preparedness tips at //www.ready.gov/ or //www.listo.gov/ to find out how you can protect your family during emergencies.
Last Updated:
06/17/2012 - 12:29