It’s severe weather (and tornado!) season — are you prepared? The City of Coppell and the Emergency Management Division want residents to be vigilant when it comes to emergency preparedness by having a plan in place before severe weather strikes.
Emergency Management suggests a Think, Prepare, Act approach:
- Think — Know about the different hazards that may affect Coppell which includes severe weather of all kinds as well as others such as fires…and pandemics.
- Prepare — Create a plan for your family, so everybody knows what to do and where to go in the event of an emergency, such as taking shelter in an interior room with no windows during a tornado warning. Signing up for emergency notifications is a must and it is also advised to build and have a disaster supply kit on hand that includes things like water, food, a radio, and cash.
- Act — Practice your plan, make safe decisions, get involved in emergency preparedness educational opportunities, and know the best route for disaster recovery.
There are outdoor warning sirens placed throughout the City of Coppell that emit a single steady tone for three minutes when the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning that includes Coppell. They may also be activated when the National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm warning that includes winds in excess of 70 miles per hour or hail that is 1.5 inches or larger. The sirens are tested on the first Wednesday of each month at 1 pm, weather permitting. Other than a test day, if the sirens are activated there is a credible threat and residents should take shelter.
Coppell Emergency Management recommends having multiple ways of receiving information in the event of an emergency. The City of Coppell provides residents with NotifyCoppell — an emergency notification system that alerts subscribers by phone, email, or text and provides critical information in a variety of situations including severe weather. Other good ways to receive important alerts include investing in a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) All-Hazards Radio, or downloading one of the many phone apps that offer push notification alerts for severe weather.
Create your plan and sign up for emergency notifications today to help keep you and your family safe during this severe weather season!