January 2019 Preparedness message

​1/7/18
Good morning Simpson County residents and Happy New Year.  This is Robert Palmer from the Simpson County Office of Emergency Management with my monthly preparedness message.
Today at noon we will activate the Community Outdoor Warning Sirens for our monthly test.  If one does not activate, please report it to our office.
Today’s preparedness message will be about Winter Weather Safety.
Everyone, but especially the elderly and very young, are potentially at risk during Cold, winter weather.  This is even more critical during winter storm events.  The interesting statistics are that most winter fatalities are actually indirectly related to a storm.  Most of the activities that cause people to be killed are: Traffic accidents on icy roads. Heart attacks while shoveling snow.  And, hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold or while living in unsafe residential conditions are more causes of death from winter time weather.
So whether you are at work, at home or traveling, here are just a few items to have on hand for your safety and comfort.
Always have a flashlight with extra batteries available wherever you are.  At home and at work a battery backed up NOAA weather radio, and non-perishable food and water, including a can opener are staples to becoming prepared.  Having an alternative heat source for comfort as well as for cooking is good to have, but for safety sake, please remember to be sure it is properly vented and ALWAYS keep flammable materials such as fuel and clothes at least three feet away from it. And, if it is portable, keep it at least three feet away from walls and furniture. 
More winter weather safety tips that can be found at www.ready.gov and you can contact me at 270-586-1800 for more information.
I hope everyone has a safe January.  My next AlertSense preparedness message will be on February 4th. 
Thank You and Be Safe!!!