(Lawrenceville, Ga. February 10, 2017) – Officials from Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services and the Gwinnett Office of Emergency Management, are encouraging residents to be prepared for the threat of severe weather.  Though strong or severe thunderstorms can happen anytime of the year, the early onset of spring-like temperatures may increase the risk for severe storms to occur over the next several months.  Be weather aware and plan for disruptions of outdoor activities in order to stay safe.

            According to professionals, the public should know the following safety practices for severe weather:

• When thunderstorms approach, move to a sturdy building or car.  Do not seek shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees, open-air pavilions or in convertible vehicles. 
• If lightning is occurring and a sturdy shelter is not available, get inside a hardtop vehicle and keep the windows rolled up.  Stay off boats and out of the water during thunderstorms.
• If caught outdoors, find a low spot – away from trees, fences and poles.  Avoid open areas like soccer fields, baseball diamonds and golf courses. 
• If possible, stay indoors until the storm passes and thunder and lightning subsides.  Avoid using electrical equipment and appliances or talking on the telephone during a lightning storm. 
• Turn-off lamps, televisions, computers and other household appliances.  Surge protectors and lightning rods provide peace of mind for homeowners, but may not be a guarantee that lightning won’t strike or disrupt household electrical circuits.
• During a tornado, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of the building and seek refuge under a sturdy/heavy piece of furniture.  Stay away from windows and exterior walls.  If traveling, get out of vehicles and into a ditch to take cover.
• Keep cell phones charged so you have contact with the outside world when power and phone lines are out.  Monitor weather reports from local media sources and be prepared ahead of time to seek appropriate shelter during severe weather warnings.
• Avoid contact with “live” electrical lines and report downed power lines to the appropriate utility company and 9-1-1.

In addition to the safety information listed above, the Gwinnett County Police Department – Office of Emergency Management is encouraging all residents and business professionals to stay connected by turning on “Emergency Alerts” in your smartphone preference settings.  To learn more about disaster preparedness and wireless emergency alerts, go to the website at www.gwinnettEMA.com.