TORNADO PREPAREDNESS REQUIRES A PLAN

Tornadoes are Georgia’s deadliest severe weather threat, with winds that can exceed 166 mph. Having a plan before storms strike is the best way to stay safe.

Prepare a Home Tornado Plan

• Choose a safe space: a basement, or a windowless hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor.
• In high-rises, pick a hallway in the building’s center.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit

• First aid kit & medications
• Canned food & can opener
• 3 gallons of water per person per day
• Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries
• Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
• Instructions on turning off electricity, gas, and water (restoring gas requires a professional)

Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings

• Monitor NOAA Weather Radio, local media, or the Ready Georgia app
• Tornado WATCH: Conditions are right for a tornado
• Tornado WARNING: A tornado has been spotted—seek shelter immediately

When a Tornado WATCH is Issued

• Stay tuned to weather updates
• Watch for signs: flying debris or a freight train-like sound

When a Tornado WARNING is Issued

• Go to your safe place immediately
• If outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building or lie flat in a low area
• Leave cars or mobile homes for safer shelter

After the Tornado

• Avoid downed power lines and damaged areas
• Listen for official updates
• Use a flashlight to check for damage—never use candles

Be Ready with Ready Georgia

Ready Georgia offers tools to create emergency kits, plans, and alerts. Visit GEMA.Georgia.gov to learn more.

Even though some types of fireworks are legal in Georgia, you should use extreme caution to avoid serious injury during your New Year’s Eve, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, or Veterans Day celebrations. Let’s work together to keep Gwinnett healthy and safe year round.

Gwinnett County’s firefighters encourage you to attend a professional show instead of using fireworks yourself this year. However, if you are going to use fireworks, follow these tips for a safe celebration:

• Purchase fireworks from a licensed and reputable vendor.
• Read the directions carefully and inspect the device for any defects.
• Keep a bucket of water, garden hose, and fire extinguisher close by.
• Ignite fireworks outdoors in an open area away from buildings, vehicles, vegetation, or any other combustible material.
• Ignite only one device at a time and use an ignition stick or fireplace lighter.
• Always keep a safe distance between yourself and the device.
• Remember to allow enough room for the proper functioning of fireworks.
• Always ignite devices on a firm, flat surface.
• Never give fireworks to a child and keep children away from any firework area.
• Never attempt to fix or re-ignite a malfunctioning device. Instead, discard it safely by soaking it in a bucket of water.
• Before going to bed at night, remember to inspect the area where fireworks were used.
• Make sure that no smoldering fires, hot embers, or sparks are present from falling fireworks debris. Wet the area with a garden hose for added protection.
• Store unused fireworks in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children or pets and away from open flames.
• When discarding fireworks, remember to always soak them in a bucket of water for several hours before placing them in the trash.
• Never attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Never handle fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Call 911 in case of emergency.

The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Peachtree City along with the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma provides weather watches, warnings, and advisories to alert the public of hazardous weather conditions. For a description of the various watches, warnings, and advisories, please see below.

Winter Weather Alerts
Winter Weather Advisory	Issued when, within the next 24 hours, there is a high probability of enough snow, sleet, or ice to cause inconvenience, but not enough to warrant a warning.
Winter Storm Watch	Issued when there is at least a 50 percent chance for winter storm conditions occurring in the next 12 to 48 hours. Winter storm conditions include an accumulation of at least a half-inch of sleet, and/or a significant accumulation (1/4 inch or more) of ice due to freezing rain, and/or heavy snow accumulation. Snow accumulations must be at least 2 inches (except 3 inches in the Northeast Georgia Mountains) within a 12-hour period, or at least 4 inches in a 24-hour period.
Winter Storm Warning	Issued when there is at least an 80 percent chance for winter storm conditions occurring within the next 24 hours. Winter storm conditions include an accumulation of at least a half-inch of sleet, and/or a significant accumulation (1/4 inch or more) of ice due to freezing rain, and/or heavy snow accumulation. Snow accumulations must be at least 2 inches (except 3 inches in the Northeast Georgia Mountains) within a 12-hour period, or at least 4 inches in a 24-hour period.
Ice Storm Warning	Issued when there is at least an 80 percent chance that freezing rain will result in the accumulation of at least 1/4 inch of ice within the next 24 hours.
Blizzard Watch	Issued when there is at least a 50 percent chance for blizzard conditions within the next 12 to 48 hours. Blizzard conditions consist of sustained wind speeds (or gusts) of at least 35 mph and considerable falling or blowing snow causing a reduction of visibilities to less than 1/4 mile for at least 3 hours.
Blizzard Warning	Issued when there is at least an 80 percent chance that wind and snow will combine to produce blizzard conditions within the next 24 hours. Blizzard conditions consist of sustained wind speeds (or gusts) of at least 35 mph, and considerable falling or blowing snow causing a reduction of visibilities to less than 1/4 mile for at least 3 hours.
Frost Outlook	Issued when, within the next 24 to 48 hours, there is a moderate probability (50percent – 70 percent) of significant frost. These are issued on, or after March 20 in spring, and prior to November 20 in autumn. In autumn, the issuance of Frost Outlooks will be discontinued prior to November 20 if temperatures fall below 28°F over a wide area.
Frost Advisory	Issued when, within the next 24 hours, there is a high probability (at least 80 percent) of significant frost. These are issued on, or after March 20 in spring, and prior to November 20 in autumn. In autumn, the issuance of Frost Advisories will be discontinued prior to November 20 if temperatures fall below 28°F over a wide area.
Freeze Watch	Issued when, during the next 12 to 48 hours, there is at least a moderate degree of confidence (50 percent  – 70 percent) that temperatures will drop to 32°F or lower. These are issued on, or after March 20 in spring, and prior to November 20 in autumn. In autumn, the issuance of Freeze Watches will be discontinued prior to November 20 if temperatures fall below 28°F over a wide area.
Freeze Warning	Issued when, during the next 24 hours, there is a high degree of confidence (at least 65%) that temperatures will drop to 32°F or lower. These are issued on, or after March 20 in spring, and prior to November 20 in autumn. In autumn, the issuance of Freeze Warnings will be discontinued prior to November 20 if temperatures fall below 28°F over a wide area. After November 20, if temperatures are expected to fall low enough to cause damage (i.e. broken water pipes), a Special Weather Statement (SPS) will be issued.
Wind Chill Advisory	Issued when, within the next 24 hours, there is a high probability of wind chill readings below zero degrees, but not low enough to warrant a warning.
Wind Chill Watch	Issued when there is at least a 50 percent chance for wind chill values to drop below minus 15 degrees within the next 12 to 48 hours.
Wind Chill Warning	Issued when there is at least an 80 percent chance that wind chill values will drop to at least 15 degrees below zero within the next 24 hours.
back to top
Severe Weather Alerts
Severe Weather Statement	A brief, concise statement to provide specific information on observed severe weather.
Significant Weather Advisory	Issued for strong thunderstorms producing frequent or excessive amounts of cloud-to-ground lightning, and/or heavy downpours that may result in minor nuisance flooding or street flooding. Also issued for strong thunderstorms producing hail or strong wind, but not meeting official "severe" criteria. It is typically issued for an hour or less and for only a few counties.
Tornado Watch	A Tornado Watch outlines an area where the possibility exists for large hail, damaging winds, and the possibility of multiple tornadoes to develop.
Tornado Warning	A warning issued to warn the public of an existing, imminent, or suspected tornado. A tornado is a violently rotating column of air, usually pendant to a thunderstorm, with circulation reaching the ground.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch	A Severe Thunderstorm Watch outlines an area where an organized episode of hail 1 inch diameter or larger and/or damaging thunderstorm winds are expected.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning	A warning issued to warn the public of an existing, imminent, or suspected severe thunderstorm. A severe thunderstorm is a thunderstorm that produces a tornado, winds of at least 50 knots (58 mph), and/or hail at least 1 inch in diameter (the size of pennies). Note: Structural wind damage may imply the occurrence of a severe thunderstorm.
back to top
Flooding Alerts
Flash Flood Warning	A warning issued to warn the public that flash flooding is imminent or in progress. A flash flood is a flood which is caused by heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, generally less than 6 hours. Also, a dam failure can cause a flash flood.
River Flood Warning	Issued when the river stage at a "forecast point" is expected to reach or exceed bank full (flood stage), causing the inundation of a normally dry area.
Areal Flood Warning	For all areas other than "forecast points," used to issue a flood warning in situations where flooding is expected to occur more than 6 hours after a heavy rain event. Also issued when flash flooding persists longer than 6 hours.
back to top
Special Weather Alerts
Special Weather Statement	Issued to convey information about an upcoming weather event that is expected to be significant, but not meeting criteria for a watch, warning, or advisory.
Wind Advisory	Issued when, during the next 24 hours, there is at least an 80 percent chance of wind speeds 20 to 35 mph lasting for one hour or longer or when wind gusts of at least 35 mph are expected.
High Wind Watch	Issued when, during the next 48 hours, there is at least a 50 percent chance of sustained wind speeds of at least 36 mph lasting 1 hour or more. Also issued when there is a 50 percent chance of a wind gust of 45 mph.
High Wind Warning	Issued when, during the next 24 hours, there is at least an 80 percent chance of sustained wind speeds of at least 36 mph lasting 1 hour or more. Also issued when there is an 80 percent chance of a wind gust of at least 45 mph.
Dense Fog (or smoke) Advisory	Issued when, during the next 24 hours, there is at least an 80 percent chance of widespread visibility restrictions of 1/4 mile or less.
back to top
Tropical Storm Alerts
Tropical Storm Watch	Issued when, during the next 48 hours, there is a least a 50 percent chance of wind speeds between 39 and 73 mph occurring in association with a land-falling tropical storm.
Tropical Storm Warning	Issued when, during the next 36 hours, there is a least an 80 percent chance of wind speeds between 39 and 73 mph occurring in association with a land-falling tropical storm.
back to top
Heat-Related Alerts
Heat Advisory	Issued when there is at least an 80 percent chance that daytime heat indices will exceed 104°F for at least 2 consecutive days.
Excessive Heat Warning	Issued when there is at least an 80 percent chance that daytime heat indices will exceed 109°F for at least 2 consecutive days.
Excessive Heat Watch	Issued when there is at least a 50 percent chance that daytime heat indices will exceed 109°F for at least 2 consecutive days.
back to top

While enjoying the beautiful outdoors, parents need to protect their children and themselves from the sun’s
damaging rays. Just a few serious sunburns or even too much tanning over long periods of time can dramatically
increase your child’s risk of skin cancer later in life. One sunburn may double a child’s risk for developing melanoma,
the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Every year more than one million Americans, including children, are diagnosed with skin cancer and more than
10,000 will die from the disease. This is more than all other types of cancer combined. Even as skin cancer is
becoming more common in children, only about one-third to one-half of children and their parents are taking
even basic steps to prevent sun damage.

Health care experts recommend that parents take precautions to protect their children from too much sun:

• Keep children out of the sun between the hours of 11:00am and 4:00pm when the sun is strongest.
• Dress children in clothing that covers them up – a long sleeved shirt, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, scalp, ears, and neck. In hotter climates like Florida’s, a tee shirt, beach cover-up, and long shorts are also good choices when combined with plenty of sunscreen and staying in the shade as much as possible.
• Provide sunglasses that protect your child’s eyes from UV rays. Look for broad spectrum protection that blocks close to 100 percent of UVB and UVA rays, absorbs UV light, and wraps around the eyes.
• Use plenty of sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every time your child goes outside. Apply it at least 30 minutes before heading out and use it even on cloudy days. Make sure to apply a thick dose and remember to cover the backs of knees, ears, under the eyes, and the neck and scalp. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours or more after swimming or heavy perspiration. Even in cool and cloudy weather, children need protection. • If your child looks even a little pink, get him or her out of the sun to prevent further burning. It can take up to 12 hours for skin to show the effects of sun exposure.
• Keep sunscreen handy. Fun things to do outdoors can come up unexpectedly, so be prepared.

Ensuring your safety while enjoying the water is not just a guideline—it's a necessity. By incorporating vital safety precautions such as wearing life jackets and understanding river conditions, you can significantly reduce the risk of emergencies related to lakes and rivers. Familiarize yourself with these essential practices to enhance your safety during aquatic adventures.

Chattahoochee River Safety

The 3 miles of the Chattahoochee River between Buford Dam and the State Route 20 bridge is a favorite destination for trout fishing enthusiasts. However, it's crucial to exercise caution here, as the river's conditions can shift rapidly.

When water is released from Buford Dam, the river can transform from a calm stream into a fast-moving torrent, rising up to 11 feet in just minutes.

To ensure your safety on the river, remember to follow these important safety precautions:

• Wear a Life Jacket: It's mandatory for anyone wading, boating, or tubing in this area.
• Listen for the Warning Horns: The sounding of warning horns indicates that water is being released from the dam. As soon as you hear the warning horns, leave the river right away. Please note that if you are situated south of the State Route 20 bridge, you may not be able to hear the warning horns.
• Tune In to Radio Station 1610 AM: This station broadcasts vital river safety messages and water release schedules.
• Heed Warning Signs: Warning signs are posted along the riverbanks. These signs will help you identify your location in case of an emergency. In an emergency, locate the nearest sign and provide that information to responders.
• Plan Your Trips Ahead of Time: Call 770.945.1466 to get the latest water release schedules.
• Be Aware of Hypothermia Risks: The average temperature of water released from the dam ranges from 44 to 58°F year-round, which can lead to exhaustion or unconsciousness in as little as 30 minutes. Wearing rubber waders is recommended for fishermen.

Lake Lanier Safety

Drowning is a significant concern in the United States, with approximately 6,000 deaths occurring each year. Alarmingly, many victims never intended to be in the water, and most drown within just 10 to 30 feet of safety.

To protect yourself and your loved ones while enjoying Lake Lanier, commit to learning how to swim and adhering to the following essential swimming and boating safety tips:

Swimming Safety Tips

• Learn how to swim from a licensed swim instructor.
• Swim in designated swim areas.
• Swim with others — never swim by yourself.
• Watch children closely at all times.
• Never dive or swim in unknown waters.

Boating Safety Tips

• Wear a life jacket.
• Check the boat for all required safety equipment.
• Take a safe boating course.
• Check the weather forecast.
• File a float plan with a friend.
• Check your electrical and fuel system for gas fumes before leaving.
• Follow manufacturer’s suggested procedures before starting up your engine.
• Carry a navigation chart.
• Follow the local navigation rules.

The summer season is known for bringing extreme heat to Georgia. Temperatures can easily reach 100 degrees or even hotter. The heat can be especially dangerous to seniors, children, and people with asthma. Limit exposure to the soaring temperatures by taking frequent breaks and drinking plenty of water. Be sure to monitor children at play and periodically check on seniors who live alone. People who work outdoors and those involved in outdoor recreational activities should take all necessary precautions in order to stay safe and cool.

Tips for Staying Safe During the Summer Heat:

• Stay hydrated during outdoor activities by drinking plenty of cool refreshing water.
• Take a cool shower, especially after outdoor activities or long exposure to the sun.
• Wear clothing that is lightweight, light-colored, and loose fitting. A brimmed hat and sunglasses provide protection to the head, face, and eyes.
• When outdoors remember to use plenty of sunscreen and always look for shaded areas to rest or to take breaks.
• Monitor weather conditions and consider staying indoors in the air conditioning when temperatures soar into the 90s. You may want to limit outdoor activities to early morning or late evening to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Heat Related Emergencies Signs and Symptoms:

Heat Exhaustion:
Symptoms include rapid, shallow breathing, cold, clammy skin, heavy perspiration, general weakness, muscle cramps, and possible loss of consciousness. Heat exhaustion can rapidly progress to heat stroke if the victim remains exposed and does not replenish lost fluids.

Heat Stroke:
Symptoms include deep breaths followed by shallow breathing, fluctuating pulse, dry hot skin, dilated pupils, loss of consciousness or possible coma, and seizures or muscular twitching. Heat stroke is a serious life threatening emergency wherein the victim’s body can no longer cool down. Prolonged high body temperature could result in brain damage or even death.

Take the following actions if any of the above signs or symptoms are present:

• Get the person to a cool, shaded area out of direct sunlight (indoors and in the air conditioning is preferred).
• Loosen tight or constrictive clothing.
• Rapidly cool the person by placing cold wet cloths under the arms, between the legs, and on the back of the neck. A cool mist or spray of water is also helpful.
• Fan the person to help lower the body temperature.
• If the person is conscious and alert and if their breathing is normal, hydrate them by providing cool water to drink
• Avoid drinks with alcohol or high sugar content. • Call for medical help as soon as possible.

You may be tempted to ignore thunderstorms because they are extremely common in Georgia and affectrelatively small areas when compared to hurricanes and winter storms. Despite their small size, however, allthunderstorms are dangerous because they can produce strong winds, lightning, tornadoes, hail, and flashflooding. The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts an average of 30 minutes.“In Georgia, the greatest threat from severe thunderstorms are straight-line winds, which can exceed speeds of 125mph, producing damage similar to that of a tornado,” said Gwinnett County Office of Emergency Management Director Michael Shaw.

According to the National Weather Service, on average, we can expect 45 to 55 days with thunderstormseach year in Georgia. Approximately 10 percent of all thunderstorms that occur in the U.S. are classified assevere. The biggest threat from severe thunderstorms is damaging straight-line winds and large hail. Theyoccur in every month of the year, but are most common in the spring and summer months, peaking in July.

Here is some information to help you recognize severe weather, develop a plan, and be ready to act whenthreatening weather approaches:

To prepare for a thunderstorm, you should do the following:

• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Remember the 30/30 lightning safety rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.

 

What you should do if a thunderstorm is likely in your area:

• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer there than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide no protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Avoid showering or bathing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers, and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Use your battery-powered NOAA weather radio for updates from local officials.

 

Avoid the following:

• Natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area
• Hilltops, open fields, the beach, or a boat on the water
• Isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas
• Anything metal–tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles