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Be Informed

Learn about the hazards present in the Northland to ensure you are able to prepare for disaster.

Extreme Heat

Preparing for extreme heat is vital in preventing heat-related illnesses and ensuring the safety of individuals, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children. It involves staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, and having a plan to stay cool in air-conditioned spaces or designated cooling centers.

What You Can Do

Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.
Cover windows with drapes or shades.
Add insulation to keep the heat out.
Install window air conditioners to keep the heat out.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat.
Take cool showers or baths.
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

Floods

Flood awareness is crucial for understanding the risks associated with living in flood-prone areas and taking appropriate measures to protect lives and property. Being informed about local flood maps, potential warning signs, and staying updated on weather forecasts can help individuals make well-informed decisions during flood events, ultimately reducing the impact of flooding.

What You Can Do

Avoid driving except in emergencies. One foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
Stay off bridged over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car.
Ne aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.

Power Outages

Power outage awareness is essential for ensuring preparedness and safety during unexpected disruptions in electricity supply. By understanding the causes of outages, keeping emergency supplies on hand, and having a backup power plan, individuals can minimize the impact of power loss and maintain essential daily functions.

What You Can Do

Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
Use a generator, but only outdoors and away from windows.
Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
Disconnect appliances and electronics to aoid damage from electrical surges.
Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
Throw away or compost any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusal odor, color, or texture.

Thunderstorms & Lightning

Thunderstorm awareness is important for recognizing the potential dangers of lightning, strong winds, hail, and heavy rain that can accompany these storms. By staying informed about local weather warnings, seeking shelter when a storm approaches, and following safety guidelines, individuals can minimize risks and protect themselves and their property during thunderstorms.

What You Can Do

When you hear thunder, go indoors.
Avoiding using electronic devices connected to an electrical outlet.
Avoid running water.
Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Report them immediately.

Tornados

Tornado awareness is crucial for understanding the risks associated with these powerful and destructive weather events, enabling individuals to take appropriate safety measures. By familiarizing oneself with tornado warning signs, having a well-rehearsed emergency plan, and seeking shelter in a secure location when a tornado is imminent, lives can be saved and injuries prevented.

What You Can Do

Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of derbis, or a loud roar like a freight train.
Protect yourself by covering your head or neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around or on top of you.
Do not try to ourun a tornado in a vehicle if you are in a car. If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible.
Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.

Winter Weather

Winter weather preparedness is essential for staying safe during extreme cold, snow, and ice events that can lead to hazardous conditions. By keeping informed about weather forecasts, preparing homes and vehicles for winter conditions, and having an emergency kit with essential supplies, individuals can minimize risks and ensure their safety during the winter season.

What You Can Do

Stay off roads if possible.
Limit your time outside. If you go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
Reduce the risk of a heart attach by avoiding over exertion when shoveling snow and walking in the snow.
Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.
Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages.
Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you.