States urge residents to stay prepared during Severe Weather Week | 02.21.2007 | 07:27:36 | Views: 6071 | ID: February 21 '07: In Georgia and Florida, state lawmakers and governors are urging residents to stay prepared and vigilant for all types of natural disasters during Severe Weather Awareness Week. The Courier Herald in Georgia and a press release from Florida Governor Charlie Crist's office both announced plans to include the public in safety and response preparedness initiatives statewide. Recent storms in the south causing massive damage from tornados and heavy rains underscore the necessity to stay prepared, officials said in both states. Laurens County, GA Emergency Management Agency Director Don Bryant told the Courier Herald, "If we had a storm coming toward them (residents) what emergency action would they take?" To help prepare residents, Bryant said that five points will be addressed throughout the week of February 19 - 23 "to help practice how to respond," the Courier Herald reported. In Florida, Gov. Crist pushed emergency preparedness during his participation in a tornado drill at Vista Fundamental Elementary School in St. Petersburg. "Governor Crist was jointed by Bay Vista principal Kris Suite; Ben Nelson, state meteorologist; and a representative from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association," the press release read. Crist said that recent storms during the Christmas holiday season "touched many lives and served as a warning to all Floridians. ... In schools statewide this morning, students are practicing what to do if a tornado strikes. Knowing how to be safe could save lives."
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