OEM Encourages Personal Preparedness
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 23, 2009
CONTACT: AMANDA SLUSS
615.880.2962 (OFFICE)
615.533.0978 (CELL)
February 23-27 is Tennessee Severe Weather Awareness Week
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Mayor’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM), in conjunction with Tennessee Severe Weather Awareness Week, today announced upcoming opportunities for citizens to become better informed about the dangers associated with severe weather and how to prepare for natural disasters before they strike.
“Tornadoes are one of nature’s most violent acts that can cause death and destruction in seconds,” Director Laura Hokenstad said. “History has shown that tornadoes can strike at any time during any month and being prepared is crucial in severe weather.”
To help spread the word about the importance of personal preparedness, OEM is partnering with Harris Teeter in Bellevue, located at 6002 Highway 100, to provide shoppers with severe weather information and advice. OEM staff will set up outside the store tomorrow from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. handing out Ready Nashville guides, demonstrating how to prepare a disaster kit and answering preparedness questions.
OEM is also teaming up with the National Weather Service during March and April to host the SkyWarn Basic and Advanced Spotter Classes. This popular class is open to anyone interested in becoming a storm spotter and learning how to help save lives. Limited space is available and pre-registration is required.
Spotter classes are free of charge. The schedule is as follows:
- Wed., March 11 from 1-3 p.m., Hermitage Police Precinct (3701 James Kay Lane)
- Tues., March 17 from 6-8 p.m., South Police Precinct (5101 Harding Place)
- Tues., April 7 from 6-8 p.m., East Police Precinct (936 E. Trinity Lane)
- Sat., April 18 from 9-11 a.m., East Police Precinct
For more information on severe weather emergency preparedness or to register for a SkyWarn Spotter class, visit our Web site at www.nashville.gov/oem.