Severe weather can strike without warning, and the communities of Whitehall, Montague, and surrounding townships are no strangers to its impact. Whether it’s a powerful storm, tornado, or heavy snowfall, it’s essential to be prepared. Ensuring you have a plan in place and the right resources at your disposal can make all the difference when an emergency occurs. Here’s a guide to help you stay safe and ready for whatever nature brings.
Stay Informed
In our area, staying informed is the first step in weather emergency preparedness.
1. TextMyGov Alerts
Both Montague and Whitehall residents can sign up for TextMyGov alerts to receive important notifications directly on their mobile phones.
- For Montague, text MONTAGUEALERTS to 91896.
- For Whitehall, text WHITEHALLMI to 91896.
After receiving a confirmation message, reply YES to confirm your opt-in. You can opt-out anytime by texting STOP.
2. National Weather Service (NWS) Alerts
You can receive National Weather Service (NWS) alerts automatically through Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your mobile phone without needing to sign up. These alerts include severe weather warnings, and they will be sent directly to your phone. You can also sign up for more specific alerts through services like email or third-party providers by visiting the NWS website. Additionally, you can tune into NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards for continuous broadcasts during severe weather events.
3. Muskegon County Alert Systems
Muskegon County residents automatically receive alerts from the National Weather Service and the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS). These weather-related emergency notifications will appear on your cell phone automatically.
Additionally, CodeRED, a free community notification system, can send alerts via phone calls, text messages, emails, and social media. To sign up for CodeRED, visit CodeRED or download the CodeRED Mobile Alert app from your app store.
4 Steps to Preparedness
Being ready for an emergency is more than just having access to alerts—it’s about making sure your home, family, and car are ready for a range of emergency situations. Follow these four steps to ensure you’re prepared:
1. Be Informed
Stay aware of weather forecasts and sign up for emergency notifications, such as TextMyGov and CodeRED. Also, make sure your phone’s WEA settings are enabled to receive government-issued emergency alerts.
2. Make a Plan
Create an emergency plan with your family. This plan should include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and designated places to meet in case of separation.
3. Build a Kit
Assemble an emergency kit for your home, car, and workplace. Essential items include:
- A battery-operated radio with extra batteries (tuned to 106.9 WOOD FM, the local Emergency Alert Station)
- Water and non-perishable food
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Pet care items
Check and update your kits regularly to ensure everything is in working order.
4. Practice and Maintain Your Plan
Review and practice your emergency plan with your family members, so everyone knows their role in an emergency. Keep your emergency kit stocked and make sure it’s easily accessible.
Shelter-In-Place
If you are instructed to shelter-in-place during a weather emergency, follow these steps to stay safe:
- Store water in closed containers for drinking and cooking.
- Close and lock all windows and doors, and seal fireplace dampers if possible.
- Choose an interior room away from windows as your shelter.
- Limit outdoor time and bring pets inside.
- Schools will shelter children—don’t pick them up unless told to do so by authorities.
- Stay tuned to local radio or TV for updates on when it is safe to leave.
Prepare Your Car
If you’re driving during a weather emergency, make sure your car is equipped with an emergency kit, including jumper cables, a flashlight, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, water, and blankets for winter months.
Avoid driving through flooded areas, and keep your gas tank full, especially during the winter months. Only drive when absolutely necessary, especially when bad weather is forecasted.
Know Local Resources
While we no longer rely on sirens in Montague, both Montague and Whitehall residents have access to TextMyGov and CodeRED for immediate emergency notifications. Make sure to use these systems to stay informed of severe weather warnings and other important alerts in our area.
Conclusion
The unpredictable nature of weather makes it essential to be proactive in your emergency preparedness. By staying informed, having a plan, building an emergency kit, and practicing your plan regularly, you’ll be ready to handle whatever weather-related emergency comes your way in the Whitehall and Montague areas. Being prepared not only protects you but also helps protect your community.
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