Are you and your family prepared for severe weather? Earlier this week, our neighbors in Alabama suffered tornados and other storms, emphasizing the fact that severe weather can strike during any time of year. On Tuesday, Governor Nathan Deal signed a proclamation announcing February 6-10 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Georgia.

Beginning with Family Preparedness and NOAA Weather Radio day on Monday of that week, each day will carry a new emphasis in planning and preparing for severe weather.

When I meet with citizens throughout Rockdale County, I emphasize the importance of having a family or business plan for dealing with severe weather, as well as making sure you have the necessary supplies and equipment, such as a NOAA weather radio. A NOAA weather radio provides a rapid alert of weather advisories, watches and warnings specific to your area. Radios can be purchased at many grocery, hardware or discount stores, and they must be programmed to the local area. If you need assistance with programming your radio, please contact the Sheriff's Office at (770) 278-8112, and someone will be happy to assist you.

CodeRed®, our emergency notification service, is capable of notifying thousands of residents via recorded telephone, email and text messages. This service is provided at no charge to residents and businesses. If you have not registered for CodeRed®, please visit our Sheriff's Office website at www.rockdalesheriff.com and scroll to the bottom of the page. On the left is a link to the CodeRed® registration system. If you need assistance, or if you would rather register by telephone, please call us at (770) 278-8184. Register by clicking on the CodeRed® logo on the Sheriff's Office website homepage, or by calling the Sheriff's Office at (770) 278-8184.

The CodeRed® notification system is not a substitute for your own planning or preparation. Please take an opportunity to review your own plans and preparations for severe weather. Talk with your family or with your employees at work to make sure everyone understands what to do when severe weather strikes.

For more information or assistance in preparing a plan for your family, school or business, visit www.ready.ga.gov, www.gema.ga.gov, and www.noaa.gov/ffc.