The emergency sirens sounded at 10:15 a.m. Wednesday as the city of Perry participated in the statewide tornado drill as part of the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week March 25-29.
The drill started at 10 a.m., with a mock “tornado watch” being issued, followed by the mock “tornado warning” at 10:15. Residents participating in the drill were encouraged to practice seeking shelter.
“The annual tornado drill is an excellent time to review tornado safety plans, conduct tornado drills in companies, schools, and other facilities,” said Perry Police Department Communications Specialist Lori A. Riley.
According to Dallas County Emergency Management Coordinator A. J. Seely, severe weather presents one of greatest risks to residents and businesses within Dallas County. Between 1955 and 2015, 51 tornadoes were reported in Dallas County and between 1953 and 2019, Dallas County was included in 15 federal disaster declarations.
Severe Weather Awareness Week presents an opportunity for citizens to prepare themselves in anticipation of severe weather, Seely said. Federal, state and local agencies encourage residents to take this opportunity to develop a disaster plan, build an emergency kit, create an emergency communications plan and practice with family members to ensure all know where to go and what to do before, during and after a storm.
Thursday’s activities will center on the theme of family preparedness, and Friday turns to flash floods.
The Dallas County Emergency Management Agency will also host a Storm Spotter Training course, taught by the National Weather Service Wednesday, April 3 at 7 p.m. The course will take place at Dallas County Human Services Campus, 25747 N Ave. in Adel. The course is free, and no pre-registration is required.
Those looking for planning and preparedness information should visit the Dallas County Emergency Management Agency website or visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website.
