Public Health Officials are asking South Georgians to prepare an
“emergency go kit” so they will have essentials ready should
authorities begin evacuations from low-laying areas at risk of flooding.
Heavy storms are expected through the weekend in South Georgia and can
cause flooding in some areas.
An emergency go kit should include:
Your families’ important papers.
Any medication needed by family members.
Personal hygiene items.
Changes of clothing.
Diapers, formula and other essentials for infants and children.
Emergency contact information.
If you are asked to evacuate, you will be directed to a shelter in your
county. If you have special needs you should let shelter authorities
know as soon as possible.
Families with pets should have emergency kits with food, bowls,
medications, pet carriers and other necessary items prepared and should
make arrangements to take their pets to veterinarians or friends for
boarding until the emergency is over. “You should not count on
emergency shelters to take pets,” says Mike Terwilliger, District
Emergency Preparedness Director.
Terwilliger also said that rescue and recovery workers should make sure
their tetanus shots are up-to-date. Tetanus vaccine is kept on hand in
all South Health District county health departments.
More information on emergency preparedness is available online at
www.southhealthdistrict.com or www.redcross.org. Information can also
be found by contacting your local health department or emergency
management agency.
Public Health Officials will continue monitoring the events through
next week. South Georgians should be encouraged to listen to local media
and emergency workers to remain informed on health and safety
recommendations.
