As storm season continues for much of the region, Levelland-Hockley County Emergency Management is urging residents and business owners to register for weather related and emergency notifications to stay informed and alerted in case of emergencies.
Residents are encouraged to go to RUAWARE.US to register for Hockley County Alerts. Business Owners in Hockley County can go to https://r.iinfo. com/hockleycobizcontact for business alerts.
Also, individuals are encouraged to check their wireless device has the “emergency alerts by location” turned on. That will allow notifications to come through similar to the amber alerts but are initiated locally for emergency situations such as tornado warning or dynamic police incidents.
Individuals should not assume that getting amber alerts to their phone their settings are correct for the notification; people will have to allow location alerts.
What location alert means is it will send the message based off geographical boundaries; the alert can be isolated to a specific area for only those within the preset boundary to receive the notification. This is a voluntary activation as amber alert system is not voluntary.
All alerts through this system come from local officials; never spam, solicitation calls, text messages or emails. All of the text messages will come from the same number so it can be saved in contacts to be easily recognized.
The phone calls will come through with the office of emergency management number 806-568-5487 so it can be saved and easily recognizable as well.
Detailed tips for storm season preparedness: Secure outdoor items: Secure lawn furniture, trash cans, gas grills, and propane tanks to prevent them from being blown around by strong winds.
Trim trees: Trim or remove trees that are close enough to fall on your home.
Protect windows: Use storm shutters or pre-cut plywood to protect windows from flying debris.
Clear gutters and downspouts: Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to prevent flooding.
Prepare for flooding: Stockpile materials like plastic sheeting and sandbags, consider a sump pump with battery backup, and elevate heating and electrical systems if possible.
Preparing for emergencies: Create an emergency kit: Include water, non-perishable food, a radio, flashlight, first-aid kit, and other essentials.
Have an evacuation plan: Know your evacuation routes and where you will go to shelter during a storm.
Identify a safe room: Designate a room in your home that is free of windows and can be used as a shelter.
Review insurance policies: Ensure your insurance policies cover storm damage and adjust your coverage as needed.
Know how to turn off utilities: Have pliers or a wrench to turn off utilities in case of a storm.
Consider a go-bag: Pack a bag with essential supplies in case you need to leave quickly.
During a storm: Stay informed: Monitor weather forecasts and alerts through weather radio, TV, or online.
Stay inside: Stay inside during a storm and avoid windows, especially if there's a risk of flying debris.
Seek shelter: If you are outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building or a low area in a forest.
Be mindful of flooding: Avoid areas where water is covering roads, even if they are familiar.
Turn off utilities: If you have time, turn off utilities to prevent fires and other hazards.