Severe Weather

Disaster Supply Kit

Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. Families can cope with disaster by preparing. The following are general guidelines for preparing for emergencies. More detailed information is available from the Emergency Management Office or from the local chapter of the American Red Cross.

Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble these supplies in a Disaster Supplies Kit. Store the Disaster Kit in easy to carry containers such as backpacks or duffel bags. Include the following:

  • A three day supply of water (one gallon per person per day).
  • Three days worth of nonperishable food (replace the food every six months).
  • One change of clothing and footwear per person.
  • One blanket or sleeping bag per person.
  • A first aid kit that includes your family’s prescription medications.
  • Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
  • An extra set of car keys.
  • A credit card, cash, or traveler’s checks.
  • Sanitation supplies.
  • Special needs items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members.
  • An extra pair of eyeglasses.

Create a Disaster Plan with your family. Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely and decide what to do if a disaster occurred. Pick two places to meet; one near your home in case of a fire, and another outside of your neighborhood in case you can’t return home. Also, ask an out of state family member or friend to be a "family contact" (after a disaster it is often easier to call long distance) in case you can’t meet at the designated places. Don’t forget to plan how to take care of your pets during an emergency.

Severe Weather Information
Watch vs. Warning

Watch

A watch is issued when the risk of a hazardous weather event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so. Watches evolve into warnings, advisories, or they are canceled.

Warning

A warning is issued when a hazardous weather event is occurring, is imminent, or has a very high probability of occurrence. A warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property. If you hear the warning sirens take cover immediately.

Siren Test Dates

The Severe Weather Sirens are an outdoor warning system only. The sirens will be tested on the first Wednesday of every month unless there is inclement weather.

If you hear the sirens go immediately indoors and tune to the television or radio for more information. When the sirens sounds, the Lake Worth Emergency Management Office will normally send an Emergency Message to all phones registered in the CodeRED telephone alert system.