Macon County Health Department

As the cold winter months quickly approach, please remember the following tips that could save your life, or the life of someone you love!

• Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing, wear mittens and a hat (preferably one that covers your ears).
• Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
• Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.
• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-­frozen drinking water.
• Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• All fuel­ burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.

Emergency preparedness is no longer the sole concern of earthquake prone Californians and those who live in the part of the country known as "Tornado Alley." For Americans, preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones. Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as making an emergency supply kit and developing a family communications plan, are the same for both a natural or man-made emergency.

However, there are important differences among potential emergencies that will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take. Learn more about the potential emergencies that could happen where you live and the appropriate way to respond to them.

In addition, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.

Contact the Emergency Preparedness Division of the Macon County Health Department if you would like to:
Request specific information about how to prepare for an emergency Schedule a speaker for your next business or community meeting Ask a question regarding a biological or natural emergency Volunteer for the Citizen Corps or Medical Reserve Corps