Awareness and preparedness is key during, after severe weather
OKLAHOMA (KFOR) - As severe weather rears its ugly head in Oklahoma, staying weather aware and having a plan is key. Officials urge everyone to have a plan not only before but after impact.
"Awareness is a key factor during this event and during any severe weather event,” Director of Oklahoma County Emergency Management David Barnes said.
The effects of Oklahoma weather in 2024 have been felt far and wide. With the season still ahead, Barnes said planning is another big key to have in mind. That plan should include the time before the storm hits and even after if you’re impacted.
“The working relationship, mutual aid, automatic aid, those type things, those are extremely strong throughout the state and throughout the region,” he said.
As many Oklahomans continue to rebuild, many people impacted need help.
"Having that preparedness plan, knowing that the first 72 hours are on the individual, there may be scarce resource management where we go into,” Barnes said.
While Barnes works for Oklahoma County, he said resources go to those that are in the most urgent need. Therefore, those resources can grow thinner if the area impacted is bigger. To help your family be prepared, have an emergency kit.
That kit should include first aid, extra batteries, a phone charger, flashlight, water and food. Another good idea would be to keep photo copies of your home mortgage, lease, and insurance cards, both home and health. Also, you should have a plan for your pets.
"We encourage people to be sure and wear sturdy shoes, clothing that's potentially more protective,” Barnes said.
In the aftermath, a presidential declaration has given impacted Oklahomans access to low interest resident or business loans for help. Those loans could help cover losses not fully compensated by insurance. More information on applications for those can be found at fema.gov.
It's recommended that if you need to relocate to do so early. Also, be on the lookout for scammers trying to take advantage of those impacted.