What's Your Emergency Response Plan?

During these distressing economic times, many of us have found ourselves going back to the basics. Some have done this as a precaution while it has been downright necessary for others. We find ourselves asking, is this a necessary expense? And, what changes can I make today, to make my business stronger tomorrow? The result is that we cut back and are left with the core basics that really matter.

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National Preparedness Month - September 2009

This September is the sixth annual National Preparedness Month.  NPM 2009 will focus on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and will help Americans understand what it truly means to be ready and how preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, and extra food in the pantry.

Visit www.ready.gov for help on making a disaster supply kit, making a family emergency plan, staying informed and how you can get involved!

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The Ultimate Family Trip Packing List

Money and Documents:

• Debit/ATM cards


• Picture ID (if your children are leaving the country with only one birth parent, a document authorizing their travel may be needed)

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Vacation Checklist: Things to Do Before You Leave

It’s summertime and that means vacations for most families. Unfortunately, your vacation buzz can be lost too quickly when you get home and realize that you forgot to take care of a few essentials. Your vacation should be an enjoyable and relaxing time, so before you head out here are a few things to be sure to check off your list so that you can come back to your home in the safe condition you left it.

• Hold mail and newspapers.

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Tornado Quiz

1. What country has the highest incidence of tornadoes worldwide?
The United States.  600 to 700 tornadoes are reported each year. Most occur in the region known as Tornado Alley that extends through the central Plains states.

2. What is the only city to appear twice on the list of the top 25 deadliest tornadoes in the United States?
Only Gainesville, Georgia appears on the list of the Top 25 Deadliest Tornadoes twice, once for the storm that struck on April 6, 1936, and once for the storm that struck on June 1, 1903.

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Hail Storms - How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

On Wednesday, February 18th, fierce thunderstorms swept Georgia with tornadoes, hail and lightning.  The National Weather Service confirmed at least nine tornadoes touched down during the storms. In addition to the tornadoes, extremely large hail was reported across the state. Widespread reports of golfball to baseball sized hail were received.  Below are a couple of links to some YouTube videos of the hail storms in Coweta and Fayette counties that you might want to check out.

Hail Storm in Coweta County

Hail Storm in Fayette County

Hail might not seem like a big deal, but it can shatter windows, leave pockmarks in siding and destroy or damage roof coverings. Hail causes $1 billion in damage to crops and property each year.  In light of these facts, I wanted to share some helpful information I came across on www.flash.org. 

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Prepare for Tornado Season

Tornado season is right around the corner and every family should take the time to prepare for it.  In Georgia, the average number of days with reported tornadoes is 6.  Most tornadoes in Georgia occur from March to May but they have been reported throughout the year. Tornadoes usually occur mid-afternoon to early evening time frame, but can occur any time of the day or night. Thirty-seven percent of all tornadoes are classified as strong or violent and these tornadoes are most likely to occur in April. In Georgia, tornadoes are often hard to see as they are surrounded in areas of rain and hail. The hilly terrain can also limit ability to see a tornado.  Therefore, it is very important that you educate yourself and your family about tornadoes and also have a plan of action in place before bad weather develops.  Some very helpful websites I came across are listed below.

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