Altus AFB maintains "Storm Ready" status

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jesse Lopez
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The Storm Ready Community recognizes Altus AFB for being well prepared for severe weather through advanced planning, training and awareness.

The 97th Civil Engineer Squadron's Readiness and Emergency Management flight worked with the National Weather Service to form an in-depth confirmation process that ensured Altus AFB's "Storm Ready" status for another three years.

The certification is proof that Altus AFB is equipped, ready and able to notify all of its personnel of an impending or imminent natural disaster at a moment's notice.

"These readiness capabilities notify base personnel of threats such as severe storms, adverse weather conditions, natural disasters and even major accidents or chemical spills," said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Matthew Noble, 97th Emergency Management NCO in charge of plans and operations. "Ultimately, the certification is a testament to the base's abilities to potentially save countless lives on base and perhaps even some off base."

Identifying the possible events that could happen is necessary for planning for the right course of action to prepare your family and home for the worst. Having a safety routine and an emergency kit are ways to minimize hardships that may occur during a natural disaster.

A basic emergency supply kit should include the following recommended items:

· Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

· Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

· Battery-powered or hand-crank radio with extra batteries

· Flashlight and extra batteries

· First aid kit

· Whistle to signal for help

· Dust mask to help filter contaminated air

· Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

· Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

· Manual can opener for food

· Local maps

· Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Once you have gathered the supplies for a basic emergency kit, you may want to consider adding the following items:

· Prescription medications and glasses

· Infant formula and diapers

· Pet food and extra water for your pet

· Cash or traveler's checks and change

· Fire extinguisher

· Matches in a waterproof container

· Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

· Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

· Paper and pencil

· Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

For up-to-date information on local news, weather and major events call 580-481-NEWS. Updates are also made on the 97th Air Mobility Wing Facebook and Twitter pages. For more information concerning general preparedness information visit http://www.Ready.gov or http://www.fema.gov.