Emergency Preparedness


With our combined training and backgrounds we are probably more ready for most emergency situations than most, yet at times still feel our preparations are inadequate.

While the two states we call home both are prone to weather emergencies, we are often called for advice. With this in mind, this page is to provide resources for us and others to quickly access in those tough situations.

Basic Emergency Supplies Kit

  • Water (one gallon per person/pet for several days)

  • Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)

  • Flashlight

  • Battery-powered radio

  • NOAA Weather Radio

  • Extra batteries

  • First aid kit

  • Important medications

  • Whistle to signal for help

  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags for personal sanitation

  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

  • Manual can opener for food

  •  Local maps

  •  Cell phone with charger or solar charger

  • Cash or traveler’s checks and change

Vehicle Emergency Kit

In case you are stranded, keep an emergency supply kit in your car with these automobile extras:

  • Jumper cables

  • Flares or reflective triangle

  • Ice scraper

  • Car cell phone charger

  • Blanket

  • Map

  • Cat litter or sand (for better tire traction)

  • Keep water, non-perishable food, and an extra set of warm clothes in the car in case you get stranded during winter weather. 

Optional Items

  • Paper and pencil

  • Books, cards, games, puzzles or other activities for children and adults



Additional Supplies

  • Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

  • Prescription medication. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.

  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

  • Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution

  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream

  • Pet food and extra water for your pet

  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

  • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

  • Fire extinguisher

  • Matches in a waterproof container

  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

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

  • Tarp or emergency shelter

  • Weapon(s) of choice with ammunition

  • Tools (hammer / mallet, wrench, pliers, wire cutters, screw drivers, axe, hand-saw, shovel)

National

Florida

Tennessee

MTEARS is a statewide system of linked UHF-only repeaters used during severe weather and other emergency situations. When the net is active, MTEARS Net Control (K4OHX) directs operations and shares watch/warning and situational updates from the National Weather Service and other official sources.