Ripple Effects

Ok – so, here’s the deal —

There’s been a lot of “weather” going on the last few days.  With lots folks offering tips, hints, tidbits, suggestions, requests, etc. on how you (Mr, Mrs, Ms John/Jane Q Public) can keep abreast of the latest and greatest.  You can’t miss ’em – they’re everywhere!  Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, news, radio, television and even (hang on…..wait for it….) that nearly obsolete thing called the newspaper.  Indeed….everywhere!

One thing I’ve noticed in sooooo many of these posts and articles, is that a very large majority are touting/promoting/focusing on some those lovely things called “apps”.  If you have an iPhone, iPad or smartphone/tablet powered by that cute little Android guy, you too can have the latest, coolest thing on the market – “we” got an app for that!!  (and yes, shameless plug here – the American Red Cross has a series of apps that are absolutely fabulous!!)

But we shouldn’t forget that not everyone has one of those handy-dandy gizmos – myself being one of the currently “un-app’d” population.  Many smartphones/tablest do not utilize the appropriate operating system to accommodate the apps – Windows, Blackberry, Palm (I know….oldie, but some are still out there) to name a few.  Of course there are folks that do not have, nor want, a smartphone.  They’re more than happy with a phone that sends and receives phone calls, and maybe – if we’re lucky – are capable of sending and receiving texts.  Add to that those individuals that don’t have any kind of a mobile device.  They actually receive their news the good old fashioned way — via television, radio, or newspaper, and talk to family and friends on a land-line phone.

So while I’m all for the techie stuff that comes out (hubby calls me a “Gerd” – a geeky-nerd) – we cannot forget that when encouraging people to be well-informed, we need to include all the options that are available to help our communities be “in the know”.

So………

As we move into Storm Season, please remember to stay informed of the latest weather developments and emergency announcements. 

• There are many “apps” available for those with iPhones, iPads and Android operating systems – providing information on Severe Weather Warnings/Alerts, First Aid tips, and much more
• Many news outlets provide “Text Alerts” for those with text-enabled cell phones.  Some even allow you to sign up for alerts in other areas so you can keep an eye on conditions near family/friends (great tool for those with elderly/frail family members living farther away)
• NOAA All Hazards Radios are always a valuable part of every home’s Disaster Supply Kit.  Many are programmable to specific areas for monitoring (S.A.M.E. technology), and you can get them battery operated or crank-powered.  Some of these radios can be fitted with (or come with) an external strobe light for the hard of hearing or deaf, and also with “pillow shakers” for those that sleep very soundly.   All different sizes, prices and colors – located in many retail locations, so generally easy to find!
• Television news and weather reports are always a good standby, but be sure to have a battery or crank-powered radio on hand in case the power goes out.
• Remember to check on family, friends or neighbors that may have difficulty receiving/understanding emergency information – not everyone listens to the radio, and not everyone has loved ones nearby to check on them!

Pass It On!

Be Aware ~ Be Informed ~ Be Safe

Woody