KNOW YOUR HAZARDLearn about the measures you can take to protect you and your property from the damaging effects of flooding, wind, ice and other natural hazards.

CITY OF BIRMINGHAM’SFLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT &

DISASTER MITIGATION SERVICES

Community Resource & Resiliency Guide

Purpose of the Manual

History and Geographical Background

HAZARDSSection 1: Floods................................................................................................5

Section 2: Extreme Wind Events ...................................................................17

Section 3: Hurricanes ......................................................................................25

Section 4: � understorms and Lightning .....................................................29

Section 5: Winter Storms ................................................................................33

Section 6: Earthquakes....................................................................................39

Section 7: Wild� res .........................................................................................43

Section 8: Droughts .........................................................................................49

Section 9: Heat Wave .......................................................................................55

APPENDICESAppendix A: Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communication Plan ..............................................................61

Appendix B: Post Flood Disaster Recovery Permitting and Building Responsibly................................................................................73

Appendix C: Flood Insurance and other Financial Assistance .....................83

Appendix D: Warning Systems ......................................................................91

Appendix E: Sources .......................................................................................97

Appendix F: Important Phone Numbers and Alerts.................................103

Table of Contents

The City of Birmingham’s Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services Community Resource and Resiliency Guide is provided as a public service. The Guide is intended to enhance public access to information about fl oodplain management and disaster mitigation services available to Birmingham residents. While every effort is made to ensure the information presented is the most useful and reliable available the City of Birmingham makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the contents of the guide and expressly disclaims liability for errors and omissions in the contents of the guide. No warranty of any kind, implied, expressed or statutory, including but not limited to the warranties of non-infringement of third party rights, title, merchantability, fi tness for a particular purpose, is given with respect to the contents of this guide. Reference in this guide to any specifi c commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, fi rm or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or preference by the City of Birmingham.

MISSION

The City of Birmingham’s Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services Program aims to protect human life, health, minimize property damage, promote the practice of wise development in areas subject to fl ooding and other natural hazards, and encourage appropriate construction practices to reduce future damage, and to prevent future displacement and human suffering from disasters by increasing public awareness and implementing various mitigation protection programs.

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Purpose of the Manual

History and Geographical Background

HAZARDSSection 1: Floods................................................................................................5

Section 2: Extreme Wind Events ...................................................................17

Section 3: Hurricanes ......................................................................................25

Section 4: � understorms and Lightning .....................................................29

Section 5: Winter Storms ................................................................................33

Section 6: Earthquakes....................................................................................39

Section 7: Wild� res .........................................................................................43

Section 8: Droughts .........................................................................................49

Section 9: Heat Wave .......................................................................................55

APPENDICESAppendix A: Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communication Plan ..............................................................61

Appendix B: Post Flood Disaster Recovery Permitting and Building Responsibly................................................................................73

Appendix C: Flood Insurance and other Financial Assistance .....................83

Appendix D: Warning Systems ......................................................................91

Appendix E: Sources .......................................................................................97

Appendix F: Important Phone Numbers and Alerts.................................103

Table of Contents

The City of Birmingham’s Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services Community Resource and Resiliency Guide is provided as a public service. The Guide is intended to enhance public access to information about fl oodplain management and disaster mitigation services available to Birmingham residents. While every effort is made to ensure the information presented is the most useful and reliable available the City of Birmingham makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the contents of the guide and expressly disclaims liability for errors and omissions in the contents of the guide. No warranty of any kind, implied, expressed or statutory, including but not limited to the warranties of non-infringement of third party rights, title, merchantability, fi tness for a particular purpose, is given with respect to the contents of this guide. Reference in this guide to any specifi c commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, fi rm or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or preference by the City of Birmingham.

MISSION

The City of Birmingham’s Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services Program aims to protect human life, health, minimize property damage, promote the practice of wise development in areas subject to fl ooding and other natural hazards, and encourage appropriate construction practices to reduce future damage, and to prevent future displacement and human suffering from disasters by increasing public awareness and implementing various mitigation protection programs.

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History and Geographical Background� e City of Birmingham is located in north central Je� erson County. Geographically, Birmingham sits in a valley in the western foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. � e general � ow of ground water is westward, away from the higher points in the City, towards the Black Warrior and Cahaba Rivers. It has a land area of approximately 146 square miles and a population of 212,237 according to the 2010 United States Census. Birmingham was founded in 1871, a� er the Civil War, as an industrial enterprise. It was named a� er Birmingham, the major industrial city of England. � e astonishing pace of Birmingham’s growth through the turn of the century earned it the nicknames “� e Magic City” and “� e Pittsburgh of the South”. Much like Pittsburgh in the north, Birmingham’s major industries were iron and steel production.

Since 1961, in the State of Alabama, there have been forty-nine major disaster declarations. � ere have been major disaster declarations consisting of thirty-three � oods, twenty-three tornadoes, nine hurricanes, as well as one winter storm and one drought. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), � oods have produced the greatest number of disaster declarations. Hurricanes have historically been the most destructive disasters a� ecting Alabamians, but due to the City’s distance from the Gulf Coast hurricanes remnants o� en leave residents in the City of Birmingham with high winds, � ash � ooding, and spawned tornados. With large trees and numerous wooded neighborhoods, the topography and landscape of the City of Birmingham lends itself to susceptibility from high winds generated during tornadoes and the remnants of hurricanes.

Purpose of the Manual� e purpose of this manual is to provide a step-by-step approach to disaster preparedness by educating the residents of Birmingham about severe hazards that a� ect the local area and providing guidance on how to develop and maintain an emergency communications plan and a disaster supply kit. Other topics covered include evacuation procedures, personal and community safe rooms, animals in disaster, and information speci� c to people with access and functional needs.

� is manual provides in-depth information on speci� c hazards and provides essential information on how to prepare, respond and recover from each type of hazard. � e following hazards are covered: Floods, Extreme Wind Events, Hurricanes, Ice/Winter Storms, Earthquakes, Wild� res, Droughts, Heat Waves, and Severe � understorms. Furthermore, this manual will de� ne the purpose and the bene� ts of � ood insurance, provide � ood protection and safety information, discuss the bene� ts of the � oodplain, outline the steps involved in the permitting process, and will be particularly useful to individuals who live in, near or plan to build in the City of Birmingham.

Use this workbook as a guide. Not all of the information will be pertinent. If you haven’t started preparing, don’t get discouraged. You don’t have to accomplish everything in one day. Take it step by step and make preparedness an ongoing family project.

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History and Geographical Background� e City of Birmingham is located in north central Je� erson County. Geographically, Birmingham sits in a valley in the western foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. � e general � ow of ground water is westward, away from the higher points in the City, towards the Black Warrior and Cahaba Rivers. It has a land area of approximately 146 square miles and a population of 212,237 according to the 2010 United States Census. Birmingham was founded in 1871, a� er the Civil War, as an industrial enterprise. It was named a� er Birmingham, the major industrial city of England. � e astonishing pace of Birmingham’s growth through the turn of the century earned it the nicknames “� e Magic City” and “� e Pittsburgh of the South”. Much like Pittsburgh in the north, Birmingham’s major industries were iron and steel production.

Since 1961, in the State of Alabama, there have been forty-nine major disaster declarations. � ere have been major disaster declarations consisting of thirty-three � oods, twenty-three tornadoes, nine hurricanes, as well as one winter storm and one drought. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), � oods have produced the greatest number of disaster declarations. Hurricanes have historically been the most destructive disasters a� ecting Alabamians, but due to the City’s distance from the Gulf Coast hurricanes remnants o� en leave residents in the City of Birmingham with high winds, � ash � ooding, and spawned tornados. With large trees and numerous wooded neighborhoods, the topography and landscape of the City of Birmingham lends itself to susceptibility from high winds generated during tornadoes and the remnants of hurricanes.

Purpose of the Manual� e purpose of this manual is to provide a step-by-step approach to disaster preparedness by educating the residents of Birmingham about severe hazards that a� ect the local area and providing guidance on how to develop and maintain an emergency communications plan and a disaster supply kit. Other topics covered include evacuation procedures, personal and community safe rooms, animals in disaster, and information speci� c to people with access and functional needs.

� is manual provides in-depth information on speci� c hazards and provides essential information on how to prepare, respond and recover from each type of hazard. � e following hazards are covered: Floods, Extreme Wind Events, Hurricanes, Ice/Winter Storms, Earthquakes, Wild� res, Droughts, Heat Waves, and Severe � understorms. Furthermore, this manual will de� ne the purpose and the bene� ts of � ood insurance, provide � ood protection and safety information, discuss the bene� ts of the � oodplain, outline the steps involved in the permitting process, and will be particularly useful to individuals who live in, near or plan to build in the City of Birmingham.

Use this workbook as a guide. Not all of the information will be pertinent. If you haven’t started preparing, don’t get discouraged. You don’t have to accomplish everything in one day. Take it step by step and make preparedness an ongoing family project.

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FLOODS FLOODS

FLOODS

What is a Flood?A � ood is a great over� owing of water, especially over land usually not submerged. Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States and in the Birmingham area; however, not all � oods are alike. Some � oods develop slowly, while others such as � ash � oods can develop in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Flash � oods can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or a sudden release of water held by an ice jam. Overland � ooding, the most common type of � ooding event typically occurs when waterways such as rivers or streams over� ow their banks as a result of rainwater or a possible levee breach and cause � ooding in surrounding areas. It can also occur when rainfall or snowmelt exceeds the capacity of underground pipes, or the capacity of streets and drains designed to carry � ood water away from urban areas. Be aware of � ood hazards no matter where you live or work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near water, behind a levee or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can � ood.

Historically, Birmingham has experienced sporadic rain downpours resulting in major cases of � ash � ooding and over 17 Presidentially Declared Disasters. � ese storms have caused damage to roads, vehicles, structures, and has endangered the lives of Birmingham residents. In April 2015 as a result of more than a foot of rain falling in a short period of time, many streets were � ooded causing road closures and school delays. � is has occurred at random times over the years and is hard to predict and prepare for without monitoring storm trackers, rain gages and the news.

Flash � ooding in the City of Birmingham, as in any location, is dependent on the amount and duration of the rainfall as well as the condition of the watershed. High amounts of rain received over relatively short periods of time (usually hours) results in fast rising waters. � e condition of the watershed also plays an important role in how local waterways react to storm events. Previously saturated areas or land covered by impervious materials, such as asphalt, will produce higher runo� rates, contributing a larger volume of water reaching the local waterways.

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� e risk of � ooding is o� en associated with the terms, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), base Floodplain and 100-Year Floodplain. � e Federal Emergency Management Agency, through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the development of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) has mapped the 100-Year � oodplain for communities participating in the NFIP. � e base � oodplain or 100-Year � oodplain is the area of land that would be covered with � ood waters by a 1-percent-annual-chance � ood. It is used by FEMA as the basis for administering their � oodplain management programs, through regulatory requirements as well as for setting � ood insurance rates.

Regardless of whether or not you are located within a SFHA, it is important to know how to prepare for a � ood, respond during a � ood, and recover from a � ooding event.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a � ood.

Decide which retrofi tting techniques best protect your house or building. Consider one or more of the following measures: Elevating the building so that � ood waters do not enter or reach any damageable portions of it. Constructing barriers out of � ll or concrete between the building and � ood waters. Dry � ood proo� ng to make the building walls and � oor water tight. Wet � ood proo� ng to modify the structure and move the contents so that when � ood waters enter the building there is little or no damage. Preventing basement � ooding from sewer backup or sump pump failure. Sealing vents to basements to prevent � ooding.

When considering the above property protection measures, please feel free to call the Floodplain Management Section at (205) 254-2479 for more information.

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You can do a number of things to protect your building from fl ood damage:Regrading your lot and retro� tting your building or house are two major � ood protection measures available to you. Regrading involves changing your lot to eliminate or reduce � ood damage; while retro� tting involves changing your building to eliminate or reduce � ood damage.

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

Protect your Property from Hazard Move valuables and furniture to higher levels. Move hazardous materials (i.e. paint, oil, pesticides, and cleaning supplies) to higher locations. Disconnect electrical appliances and do not touch them if you are wet or standing in water. Bring outside possessions indoors or tie them down securely. (i.e. lawn furniture, garbage cans, and other movable objects.

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Purchase Flood Insurance.Check your downspout–drain away from the house to preventbasement � ooding.

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� e risk of � ooding is o� en associated with the terms, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), base Floodplain and 100-Year Floodplain. � e Federal Emergency Management Agency, through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the development of Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) has mapped the 100-Year � oodplain for communities participating in the NFIP. � e base � oodplain or 100-Year � oodplain is the area of land that would be covered with � ood waters by a 1-percent-annual-chance � ood. It is used by FEMA as the basis for administering their � oodplain management programs, through regulatory requirements as well as for setting � ood insurance rates.

Regardless of whether or not you are located within a SFHA, it is important to know how to prepare for a � ood, respond during a � ood, and recover from a � ooding event.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a � ood.

Decide which retrofi tting techniques best protect your house or building. Consider one or more of the following measures: Elevating the building so that � ood waters do not enter or reach any damageable portions of it. Constructing barriers out of � ll or concrete between the building and � ood waters. Dry � ood proo� ng to make the building walls and � oor water tight. Wet � ood proo� ng to modify the structure and move the contents so that when � ood waters enter the building there is little or no damage. Preventing basement � ooding from sewer backup or sump pump failure. Sealing vents to basements to prevent � ooding.

When considering the above property protection measures, please feel free to call the Floodplain Management Section at (205) 254-2479 for more information.

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You can do a number of things to protect your building from fl ood damage:Regrading your lot and retro� tting your building or house are two major � ood protection measures available to you. Regrading involves changing your lot to eliminate or reduce � ood damage; while retro� tting involves changing your building to eliminate or reduce � ood damage.

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

Protect your Property from Hazard Move valuables and furniture to higher levels. Move hazardous materials (i.e. paint, oil, pesticides, and cleaning supplies) to higher locations. Disconnect electrical appliances and do not touch them if you are wet or standing in water. Bring outside possessions indoors or tie them down securely. (i.e. lawn furniture, garbage cans, and other movable objects.

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Purchase Flood Insurance.Check your downspout–drain away from the house to preventbasement � ooding.

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MEASURES TO TAKE

Birmingham’s drainage system is composed of streams, lakes, wetlands, � ood detention sites, pipes and ditches which have been designed to hold and carry water during storms to prevent � ooding. However, when intense storms hit and overwhelm the system, � ooding can occur. Flooding can cause property damage and streambank erosion.

Do not dump trash, grass clippings, wood, Christmas trees, large rocks or other debris into streams, lakes, rivers or drainage ditches, which can block the � ow of water. Section 11-3-23 of the Birmingham City Code prohibits “criminal littering” in any public or private waters or property. If you see dumping or debris in any of the private or public waters, contact the Department of Public Works at (205) 254-6314 or call 311, as the debris may increase � ooding on your property.

Remember every piece of debris, such as garbage, tires, lumber, furniture and appliances, can obstruct the � ow of waters that can cause over� ows onto roads and yards. Even grass clippings and branches can accumulate and plug channels that may also result in an over� ow. If your property is next to a lake, stream or drainage structure, please do your part and keep the banks and inlets clear of brush and trash.

Although you cannot control Mother Nature, here are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your property against fl ooding: Property owners are responsible for maintenance of these private drainage systems.

Clear debris and leaves from roof gutters and downspouts to protect your property.

Leave natural vegetation on steep slopes and along streams and earth so it won’t wash away.

Test your sump pump to make sure it will be in good working order if a storm hits.

Do not attempt to drive through standing water or walk through � ooded areas. It’s easy to lose your balance.

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Call Utilities at Department of Public Works at (205) 254-6314 or call 311 if your home or business is in danger of � ooding.

Call Department of Public Works at (205) 254-6314 or call 311 for general drainage questions about your property.

Purchase � ood insurance if your home is in a � oodplain. Even if you don’t live in a � oodplain, � ood insurance is a good idea because a typical homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover water damage unless the damage is caused by interior � ooding, such as an over� owing toilet or leaking sink.

Call the Floodplain Management Section Sta� at (205) 254-2479 to � nd out if your house or business is in a � oodplain, to obtain historical � ooding information, or to see if an elevation certi� cate is on � le for your property in Birmingham. Call the City’s Permit o� ce at 205-254-2904 for information on development projects near streams, wetlands or in � oodplain areas.

Visit � oodsmart.gov for more information on � oods.

Know your fl ood hazardFlood maps and � ood protection references are also available at the downtown Birmingham Public Library. You may also visit the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits, Floodplain Management Section on the � � h � oor of City Hall to see if your property is in a mapped � oodplain. If so, we can give you more information, such as depth, frequency, and historical � ooding information.

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MEASURES TO TAKE

Birmingham’s drainage system is composed of streams, lakes, wetlands, � ood detention sites, pipes and ditches which have been designed to hold and carry water during storms to prevent � ooding. However, when intense storms hit and overwhelm the system, � ooding can occur. Flooding can cause property damage and streambank erosion.

Do not dump trash, grass clippings, wood, Christmas trees, large rocks or other debris into streams, lakes, rivers or drainage ditches, which can block the � ow of water. Section 11-3-23 of the Birmingham City Code prohibits “criminal littering” in any public or private waters or property. If you see dumping or debris in any of the private or public waters, contact the Department of Public Works at (205) 254-6314 or call 311, as the debris may increase � ooding on your property.

Remember every piece of debris, such as garbage, tires, lumber, furniture and appliances, can obstruct the � ow of waters that can cause over� ows onto roads and yards. Even grass clippings and branches can accumulate and plug channels that may also result in an over� ow. If your property is next to a lake, stream or drainage structure, please do your part and keep the banks and inlets clear of brush and trash.

Although you cannot control Mother Nature, here are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your property against fl ooding: Property owners are responsible for maintenance of these private drainage systems.

Clear debris and leaves from roof gutters and downspouts to protect your property.

Leave natural vegetation on steep slopes and along streams and earth so it won’t wash away.

Test your sump pump to make sure it will be in good working order if a storm hits.

Do not attempt to drive through standing water or walk through � ooded areas. It’s easy to lose your balance.

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Call Utilities at Department of Public Works at (205) 254-6314 or call 311 if your home or business is in danger of � ooding.

Call Department of Public Works at (205) 254-6314 or call 311 for general drainage questions about your property.

Purchase � ood insurance if your home is in a � oodplain. Even if you don’t live in a � oodplain, � ood insurance is a good idea because a typical homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover water damage unless the damage is caused by interior � ooding, such as an over� owing toilet or leaking sink.

Call the Floodplain Management Section Sta� at (205) 254-2479 to � nd out if your house or business is in a � oodplain, to obtain historical � ooding information, or to see if an elevation certi� cate is on � le for your property in Birmingham. Call the City’s Permit o� ce at 205-254-2904 for information on development projects near streams, wetlands or in � oodplain areas.

Visit � oodsmart.gov for more information on � oods.

Know your fl ood hazardFlood maps and � ood protection references are also available at the downtown Birmingham Public Library. You may also visit the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits, Floodplain Management Section on the � � h � oor of City Hall to see if your property is in a mapped � oodplain. If so, we can give you more information, such as depth, frequency, and historical � ooding information.

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RESPOND

If a fl ood is likely in your area, you should: Listen to the radio or television for information and follow all instructions for your area.

Be aware that � ash � ooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a � ash � ood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.

Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to � ood suddenly. Flash � oods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following: Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper � oor.

Turn o� utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances and do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips: Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of fast � owing water can sweep you o� your feet. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the � rmness of the ground in front of you.

Do not drive into � ooded areas. If � oodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground where water is not moving or not more than a few inches deep. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly. If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, stay in the vehicle. If the water is rising inside the vehicle, seek refuge on the roof.

Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks, particularly during threatening conditions.

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The following are important points to remember when driving in fl ood conditions: Remember six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.

Remember a foot of water will � oat many vehicles.

Remember two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.

Do not attempt to drive through a � ooded road. � e depth of water is not always obvious. � e road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.

Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.

Do not try to take short cuts, as they may be blocked. Stick to designated evacuation routes.

Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize � ood dangers.

Protect your Property: Turn o� all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuation is likely.

Place furniture on beds, then personal items on top of the furniture.

Anchor, secure or weigh down items that may � oat or move and become “battering rams.”

Place glass items in plastic bags to prevent pieces from spreading if breakage occurs.

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RESPOND

If a fl ood is likely in your area, you should: Listen to the radio or television for information and follow all instructions for your area.

Be aware that � ash � ooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a � ash � ood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.

Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to � ood suddenly. Flash � oods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following: Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper � oor.

Turn o� utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances and do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips: Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of fast � owing water can sweep you o� your feet. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the � rmness of the ground in front of you.

Do not drive into � ooded areas. If � oodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground where water is not moving or not more than a few inches deep. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly. If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, stay in the vehicle. If the water is rising inside the vehicle, seek refuge on the roof.

Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks, particularly during threatening conditions.

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The following are important points to remember when driving in fl ood conditions: Remember six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.

Remember a foot of water will � oat many vehicles.

Remember two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.

Do not attempt to drive through a � ooded road. � e depth of water is not always obvious. � e road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.

Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.

Do not try to take short cuts, as they may be blocked. Stick to designated evacuation routes.

Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize � ood dangers.

Protect your Property: Turn o� all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuation is likely.

Place furniture on beds, then personal items on top of the furniture.

Anchor, secure or weigh down items that may � oat or move and become “battering rams.”

Place glass items in plastic bags to prevent pieces from spreading if breakage occurs.

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Put chemicals in waterproof containers and move to higher ground.

Avoid back� ow of sewer lines by closing o� all sewer line entries into your house.

RECOVER

Although fl oodwaters may have subsided in some areas, many dangers still exist. Here are some things to remember in the days ahead: Use Everbridge Birmingham and 911 Je� erson County Emergency Alert systems to get information and expert informed advice as soon as available.

Avoid moving water.

Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been speci� cally requested by police, � re, or other relief organizations.

Staying o� the roads and out of the way as emergency workers will be assisting people in � ooded areas.

Play it safe. Additional � ooding or � ash � oods can occur. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.

Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Choose alternate route if you come upon a barricade or a � ooded road. Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection.

Be extremely cautious, if you must walk or drive in areas that have been � ooded, stay on � rm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you o� your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

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Remember, � ooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters o� en erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it’s also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.

Be aware of areas where � oodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.

Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by � oodwaters.

Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.

Be alert for gas leaks.

Do not strike a match or use an open � ame when entering your home a� er a � ood unless you know the gas has been turned o� and the area has been ventilated.

Watch out for mold growth.

Remember, within days of being soaked, dry walls, upholstered furniture and wooden � xtures may develop mold and mildew. � ese can be health hazards.

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12 13

Put chemicals in waterproof containers and move to higher ground.

Avoid back� ow of sewer lines by closing o� all sewer line entries into your house.

RECOVER

Although fl oodwaters may have subsided in some areas, many dangers still exist. Here are some things to remember in the days ahead: Use Everbridge Birmingham and 911 Je� erson County Emergency Alert systems to get information and expert informed advice as soon as available.

Avoid moving water.

Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been speci� cally requested by police, � re, or other relief organizations.

Staying o� the roads and out of the way as emergency workers will be assisting people in � ooded areas.

Play it safe. Additional � ooding or � ash � oods can occur. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.

Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Choose alternate route if you come upon a barricade or a � ooded road. Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection.

Be extremely cautious, if you must walk or drive in areas that have been � ooded, stay on � rm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you o� your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

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Remember, � ooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters o� en erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it’s also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.

Be aware of areas where � oodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.

Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by � oodwaters.

Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.

Be alert for gas leaks.

Do not strike a match or use an open � ame when entering your home a� er a � ood unless you know the gas has been turned o� and the area has been ventilated.

Watch out for mold growth.

Remember, within days of being soaked, dry walls, upholstered furniture and wooden � xtures may develop mold and mildew. � ese can be health hazards.

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Staying Healthy Be mindful, a � ood can cause physical hazards and emotional stress. You need to look a� er yourself and your family as you focus on cleanup and repair.

Avoid � oodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage.

Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewer systems are serious health hazards.

Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.

Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud le� from � oodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals.

Rest o� en and eat well.

Discuss your concerns with others and seek help. Contact Red Cross for information on emotional support available in your area.

Get a copy of the book “Repairing Your Flooded Home” which is available free from the American Red Cross, Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency or your state or local emergency manager. � e Red Cross may be able to provide you with a cleanup kit: mop, broom, bucket, and cleaning supplies.

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NATURAL AND BENEFICIAL FUNCTIONS OF FLOODPLAINS

Although � oodplains can cause harm, they are also an important natural asset. � ese relatively low, natural areas next to streams, rivers, and lakes periodically � ood and, in doing so, provide a wide range of bene� ts to both human and natural systems. Some natural and bene� cial functions of the � oodplain include:

Storage and conveyance of stormwater.

Reduction of � ood velocities and � ood peaks, wind and wave impacts, and soil erosion and sedimentation.

Improvement of water quality by � ltering nutrients and impurities from stormwater runo� .

Improvement of groundwater supply and quality that helps maintain and improve conditions for municipal and private wells.

Breeding and feeding grounds and habitats for many plant and animal species.

Open space areas for parks, greenways, hiking, camping, � shing, boating, bird-watching, picnicking, jogging, cycling, nature observing, outdoor laboratories for education, scienti� c study and research.

Indeed, the natural � oodplains of Birmingham are one of our most delicate and treasured assets. Please do your part to preserve and protect them.

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Staying Healthy Be mindful, a � ood can cause physical hazards and emotional stress. You need to look a� er yourself and your family as you focus on cleanup and repair.

Avoid � oodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage.

Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewer systems are serious health hazards.

Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.

Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud le� from � oodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals.

Rest o� en and eat well.

Discuss your concerns with others and seek help. Contact Red Cross for information on emotional support available in your area.

Get a copy of the book “Repairing Your Flooded Home” which is available free from the American Red Cross, Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency or your state or local emergency manager. � e Red Cross may be able to provide you with a cleanup kit: mop, broom, bucket, and cleaning supplies.

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NATURAL AND BENEFICIAL FUNCTIONS OF FLOODPLAINS

Although � oodplains can cause harm, they are also an important natural asset. � ese relatively low, natural areas next to streams, rivers, and lakes periodically � ood and, in doing so, provide a wide range of bene� ts to both human and natural systems. Some natural and bene� cial functions of the � oodplain include:

Storage and conveyance of stormwater.

Reduction of � ood velocities and � ood peaks, wind and wave impacts, and soil erosion and sedimentation.

Improvement of water quality by � ltering nutrients and impurities from stormwater runo� .

Improvement of groundwater supply and quality that helps maintain and improve conditions for municipal and private wells.

Breeding and feeding grounds and habitats for many plant and animal species.

Open space areas for parks, greenways, hiking, camping, � shing, boating, bird-watching, picnicking, jogging, cycling, nature observing, outdoor laboratories for education, scienti� c study and research.

Indeed, the natural � oodplains of Birmingham are one of our most delicate and treasured assets. Please do your part to preserve and protect them.

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16

EXTREME WIND EVENTS

EXTREME

WIND EVENTS

EXTREME WIND EVENTS What is an Extreme Wind Event?“Wind event” is a general term that encompasses other terms that Birmingham is all too familiar with. � e term includes events such as tornados, straight-line winds, and other damaging events. Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms. Spawned from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes can cause fatalities and devastate a neighborhood in seconds. A tornado appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground with whirling winds that can reach 300 miles per hour. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. Some tornadoes are clearly visible, while rain or nearby low-hanging clouds obscure others. Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that little, if any, advance warning is possible. Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may become very still. A cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a funnel is not visible. Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. It is not uncommon to see clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado.

Records show that the state leads the nation in experiencing the most dangerous tornadic events since 1966. One of the most recent tornadic event, April 27, 2011, wreaked havoc across the state of Alabama. It was an F-4 that resulted in 1500 reported injuries and 65 deaths throughout the City of Birmingham and neighboring cities.

In Alabama, peak tornado season is generally March through May with a secondary season in late fall; however tornadoes can strike at any time of the year if the essential conditions are present. Tornadoes in the peak season are o� en associated with strong, frontal systems that form in central states and move east. Straight line winds, on the other hand, and tornados cause similar damage. � e di� erence between the two is, a tornado forms when uneven temperatures across a frontal boundary cause wind shear, strong winds moving in di� erent directions. If conditions are right, the wind movement will become circular, drawing energy into the vortex and forming a tornado. Straight line winds, on the other hand, occur when a column of rain-cooled air sinks rapidly, striking the ground and fanning out in all directions as a strong burst of winds. Tornadoes scatter objects all over because they rotate so quickly. However, the lack of rotation, or spin,

in “straight-line winds” allows meteorologists to di� erentiate damage from tornadic winds.

Straight line winds are an extremely short-lived weather phenomena that can form and dissipate within moments, making them extremely dangerous due to their unpredictability. � e term “straight-line winds” is used to describe ground-level winds that come out of a thunderstorm and do not have rotation. Storms with severe straight-line winds can also have hail and tornadoes. Straight-line winds can cause considerable damage because these winds o� en do not let up. Straight-line winds will push objects over, all in the same direction as the wind is blowing. � ese winds can be hazardous as they can push over objects that land on top of people, causing injury and death.

Quick facts you should know about tornadoes: � ey may strike quickly, with little or no warning.

� ey may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel.

� e average tornado moves Southwest to Northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.

� e average forward speed of a tornado is 30 mph, but may vary from stationary to 70 mph.

Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.

Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water.

Peak tornado season in the southern states is March through May; in the northern states, it is late spring through early summer.

Tornadoes mostly happen between 3 pm and 9 pm, but can occur at any time, according to NOAA.

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EXTREME WIND EVENTS What is an Extreme Wind Event?“Wind event” is a general term that encompasses other terms that Birmingham is all too familiar with. � e term includes events such as tornados, straight-line winds, and other damaging events. Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms. Spawned from powerful thunderstorms, tornadoes can cause fatalities and devastate a neighborhood in seconds. A tornado appears as a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground with whirling winds that can reach 300 miles per hour. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. Some tornadoes are clearly visible, while rain or nearby low-hanging clouds obscure others. Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that little, if any, advance warning is possible. Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may become very still. A cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a funnel is not visible. Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. It is not uncommon to see clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado.

Records show that the state leads the nation in experiencing the most dangerous tornadic events since 1966. One of the most recent tornadic event, April 27, 2011, wreaked havoc across the state of Alabama. It was an F-4 that resulted in 1500 reported injuries and 65 deaths throughout the City of Birmingham and neighboring cities.

In Alabama, peak tornado season is generally March through May with a secondary season in late fall; however tornadoes can strike at any time of the year if the essential conditions are present. Tornadoes in the peak season are o� en associated with strong, frontal systems that form in central states and move east. Straight line winds, on the other hand, and tornados cause similar damage. � e di� erence between the two is, a tornado forms when uneven temperatures across a frontal boundary cause wind shear, strong winds moving in di� erent directions. If conditions are right, the wind movement will become circular, drawing energy into the vortex and forming a tornado. Straight line winds, on the other hand, occur when a column of rain-cooled air sinks rapidly, striking the ground and fanning out in all directions as a strong burst of winds. Tornadoes scatter objects all over because they rotate so quickly. However, the lack of rotation, or spin,

in “straight-line winds” allows meteorologists to di� erentiate damage from tornadic winds.

Straight line winds are an extremely short-lived weather phenomena that can form and dissipate within moments, making them extremely dangerous due to their unpredictability. � e term “straight-line winds” is used to describe ground-level winds that come out of a thunderstorm and do not have rotation. Storms with severe straight-line winds can also have hail and tornadoes. Straight-line winds can cause considerable damage because these winds o� en do not let up. Straight-line winds will push objects over, all in the same direction as the wind is blowing. � ese winds can be hazardous as they can push over objects that land on top of people, causing injury and death.

Quick facts you should know about tornadoes: � ey may strike quickly, with little or no warning.

� ey may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel.

� e average tornado moves Southwest to Northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in any direction.

� e average forward speed of a tornado is 30 mph, but may vary from stationary to 70 mph.

Tornadoes can accompany tropical storms and hurricanes as they move onto land.

Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water.

Peak tornado season in the southern states is March through May; in the northern states, it is late spring through early summer.

Tornadoes mostly happen between 3 pm and 9 pm, but can occur at any time, according to NOAA.

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RESIDENT OPTIONSBuild a Safe RoomExtreme windstorms in many parts of the country pose a serious threat to buildings and their occupants. Your residence may be built “to code” but that does not mean it can withstand winds from extreme events such as tornadoes and major hurricanes. � e purpose of a safe room or a wind shelter is to provide a space where you and your family can seek refuge that provides a high level of protection. You can build a safe room in one of several places in your home.

Your basement.

Atop a concrete slab-on-grade foundation or garage � oor.

An interior room on the � rst � oor.

Safe rooms built below ground level provide the greatest protection, but a safe room built in a � rst-� oor interior room also can provide the necessary protection. Below-ground safe rooms must be designed to avoid accumulating water during the heavy rains that o� en accompany severe windstorms.

To protect its occupants, a safe room must be built to withstand high winds and � ying debris, even if the rest of the residence is severely damaged or destroyed. Consider the following when building a safe room: � e safe room must be adequately anchored to resist overturning and upli� .

� e walls, ceiling and door of the shelter must withstand wind pressure and resist penetration by windborne objects and falling debris.

� e connections between all parts of the safe room must be strong enough to resist the wind.

Sections of either interior or exterior residence walls that are used as walls of the safe room must be separated from the structure of the residence so that damage to the residence will not cause damage to the safe room. If you are interested in � nding out more about individual saferoom for personal property, please contact Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency (205) 254-2039.

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Quick facts you should know about straight line winds: Damaging straight line winds can cause damage just like a tornado.

You can have twisting type damage with a microburst due to the turbulance generated by the air parcel a� er hitting the ground at extremely high speeds.

A loud roar can also be associated with straight line winds, much like a tornado.

All severe storms have low level vertical wind shear, including those that don’t produce a tornado.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from extreme wind events.

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency.

Be alert to changing weather conditions.

Look for the following danger signs when storms are approaching: Dark, o� en greenish sky Large hail A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating) Loud roar, similar to a freight train.

If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

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RESIDENT OPTIONSBuild a Safe RoomExtreme windstorms in many parts of the country pose a serious threat to buildings and their occupants. Your residence may be built “to code” but that does not mean it can withstand winds from extreme events such as tornadoes and major hurricanes. � e purpose of a safe room or a wind shelter is to provide a space where you and your family can seek refuge that provides a high level of protection. You can build a safe room in one of several places in your home.

Your basement.

Atop a concrete slab-on-grade foundation or garage � oor.

An interior room on the � rst � oor.

Safe rooms built below ground level provide the greatest protection, but a safe room built in a � rst-� oor interior room also can provide the necessary protection. Below-ground safe rooms must be designed to avoid accumulating water during the heavy rains that o� en accompany severe windstorms.

To protect its occupants, a safe room must be built to withstand high winds and � ying debris, even if the rest of the residence is severely damaged or destroyed. Consider the following when building a safe room: � e safe room must be adequately anchored to resist overturning and upli� .

� e walls, ceiling and door of the shelter must withstand wind pressure and resist penetration by windborne objects and falling debris.

� e connections between all parts of the safe room must be strong enough to resist the wind.

Sections of either interior or exterior residence walls that are used as walls of the safe room must be separated from the structure of the residence so that damage to the residence will not cause damage to the safe room. If you are interested in � nding out more about individual saferoom for personal property, please contact Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency (205) 254-2039.

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Quick facts you should know about straight line winds: Damaging straight line winds can cause damage just like a tornado.

You can have twisting type damage with a microburst due to the turbulance generated by the air parcel a� er hitting the ground at extremely high speeds.

A loud roar can also be associated with straight line winds, much like a tornado.

All severe storms have low level vertical wind shear, including those that don’t produce a tornado.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from extreme wind events.

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency.

Be alert to changing weather conditions.

Look for the following danger signs when storms are approaching: Dark, o� en greenish sky Large hail A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating) Loud roar, similar to a freight train.

If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

18 1920

RESPOND

If you are in a structure (e.g. residence, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building, manufactured home/offi ce): Go to a pre-designated area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of a small interior room on the lowest level (i.e. closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.

Put on sturdy shoes.

Do not open windows.

Get out immediately if you are in a manufactored home or manufactored o� ce and go to a pre-identi� ed location such as the lowest � oor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, o� er little protection from tornadoes.

If you are outside with no shelter: Buckle your seat belt and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter if you are in a vehicle. If your vehicle is hit by � ying debris while you are driving, pull over and park.

Take cover in a stationary vehicle. Put the seat belt on and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.

Lie in an area noticeably lower than the level of the roadway and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.

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RECOVER

Injury may result from the direct impact of a tornado or it may occur a� erward when people walk among debris and enter damaged buildings.

InjuriesCheck for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Get medical assistance immediately. If someone has stopped breathing, begin CPR if you are trained to do so. A common procedure to stop bleeding of a mild injury is applying direct pressure to the wound. Have any puncture wound evaluated by a physician. If you are trapped, try to attract attention to your location.

General Safety Precautions:Here are some safety precautions that could help you avoid injury a� er a tornado: Continue to monitor your battery-powered radio or television for emergency information.

Be careful when entering any structure that has been damaged.

Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves when handling or walking on or near debris. Be aware of hazards from exposed nails and broken glass.

Do not touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed lines. Report electrical hazards to the police and the utility company.

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Also, community safe rooms are available throughout Birmingham. If you are interested in � nding out more about Community Safe Room locations, please contact Floodplain Management & Disaster Mitigation Services Section at 205-254-2479.

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Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, � at location.

Never try to outrun a tornado.

Watch out for � ying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

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RESPOND

If you are in a structure (e.g. residence, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building, manufactured home/offi ce): Go to a pre-designated area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of a small interior room on the lowest level (i.e. closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.

Put on sturdy shoes.

Do not open windows.

Get out immediately if you are in a manufactored home or manufactored o� ce and go to a pre-identi� ed location such as the lowest � oor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, o� er little protection from tornadoes.

If you are outside with no shelter: Buckle your seat belt and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter if you are in a vehicle. If your vehicle is hit by � ying debris while you are driving, pull over and park.

Take cover in a stationary vehicle. Put the seat belt on and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.

Lie in an area noticeably lower than the level of the roadway and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.

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RECOVER

Injury may result from the direct impact of a tornado or it may occur a� erward when people walk among debris and enter damaged buildings.

InjuriesCheck for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Get medical assistance immediately. If someone has stopped breathing, begin CPR if you are trained to do so. A common procedure to stop bleeding of a mild injury is applying direct pressure to the wound. Have any puncture wound evaluated by a physician. If you are trapped, try to attract attention to your location.

General Safety Precautions:Here are some safety precautions that could help you avoid injury a� er a tornado: Continue to monitor your battery-powered radio or television for emergency information.

Be careful when entering any structure that has been damaged.

Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves when handling or walking on or near debris. Be aware of hazards from exposed nails and broken glass.

Do not touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed lines. Report electrical hazards to the police and the utility company.

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Also, community safe rooms are available throughout Birmingham. If you are interested in � nding out more about Community Safe Room locations, please contact Floodplain Management & Disaster Mitigation Services Section at 205-254-2479.

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Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, � at location.

Never try to outrun a tornado.

Watch out for � ying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

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Use battery-powered lanterns, if possible, rather than candles to light homes without electrical power. If you use candles, make sure they are in safe holders away from curtains, paper, wood or other � ammable items. Never leave a candle burning when you are out of the room.

Never use generators, pressure washers, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement, garage or camper - or even outside near an open window, door or vent. Carbon monoxide (CO) - an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if you breathe it - from these sources can build up in your home, garage or camper and poison the people and animals inside. Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light- headed or nauseated.

Hang up displaced telephone receivers that may have been knocked o� by the tornado, but stay o� the telephone, except to report an emergency.

Cooperate fully with public safety o� cials.

Respond to requests for volunteer assistance by police, � re � ghters, emergency management and relief organizations, but do not go into damaged areas unless assistance has been requested. Your presence could hamper relief e� orts and you could endanger yourself.

Inspecting the Damage A� er a tornado, be aware of possible structural, electrical or gas- leak hazards in your home. Contact your local city or county building inspectors for information on structural safety codes and standards. � ey may also o� er suggestions on � nding a quali� ed contractor to do work for you.

In general, if you suspect any damage to your home, shut o� electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid � re, electrocution or explosions.

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✦ If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a � ashlight rather than a candle or torch to avoid the risk of � re or explosion in a damaged home.

If you see exposed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut o� the done electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn o� the main gas valve, open all windows and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas gas company, the police or � re departments, or State of Alabama Fire Marshal’s O� ce and do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until you are told it is safe to do so.

Safety During Clean Up Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves. Learn proper safety procedures and operating instructions before operating any gas-powered or electric-powered saws or tools.

Clean up spilled medicines, drugs, � ammable liquids and other potentially hazardous materials and dispose of them properly. Contact the Health Department on how to properly dispose of hazardous wastes.

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Use battery-powered lanterns, if possible, rather than candles to light homes without electrical power. If you use candles, make sure they are in safe holders away from curtains, paper, wood or other � ammable items. Never leave a candle burning when you are out of the room.

Never use generators, pressure washers, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement, garage or camper - or even outside near an open window, door or vent. Carbon monoxide (CO) - an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if you breathe it - from these sources can build up in your home, garage or camper and poison the people and animals inside. Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light- headed or nauseated.

Hang up displaced telephone receivers that may have been knocked o� by the tornado, but stay o� the telephone, except to report an emergency.

Cooperate fully with public safety o� cials.

Respond to requests for volunteer assistance by police, � re � ghters, emergency management and relief organizations, but do not go into damaged areas unless assistance has been requested. Your presence could hamper relief e� orts and you could endanger yourself.

Inspecting the Damage A� er a tornado, be aware of possible structural, electrical or gas- leak hazards in your home. Contact your local city or county building inspectors for information on structural safety codes and standards. � ey may also o� er suggestions on � nding a quali� ed contractor to do work for you.

In general, if you suspect any damage to your home, shut o� electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid � re, electrocution or explosions.

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✦

✦

✦ If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a � ashlight rather than a candle or torch to avoid the risk of � re or explosion in a damaged home.

If you see exposed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut o� the done electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn o� the main gas valve, open all windows and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas gas company, the police or � re departments, or State of Alabama Fire Marshal’s O� ce and do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until you are told it is safe to do so.

Safety During Clean Up Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and gloves. Learn proper safety procedures and operating instructions before operating any gas-powered or electric-powered saws or tools.

Clean up spilled medicines, drugs, � ammable liquids and other potentially hazardous materials and dispose of them properly. Contact the Health Department on how to properly dispose of hazardous wastes.

22 2324

HURRICANES

HURRICANES

HURRICANES Hurricanes are large tropical storms that form over warm ocean waters. A tropical storm becomes a hurricane once its winds reach 74 miles per hour. Once a hurricane forms, experts can estimate the path it will travel and how strong it will become.

� ere are � ve categories of hurricanes with a category � ve being the most dangerous. People living in the nation’s coastal communities, particularly those along the Atlantic and Gulf Coast regions, are at highest risk. Hurricanes carry a lot of rains with it and even a� er the hurricane has subsided, it may continue to rain. In addition to dangerous winds, hurricanes can cause storm surges and tornadoes.

Over 25 hurricanes have been recorded in the Birmingham, AL since 1930. � e largest hurricane was in 1898 and was unnamed. � e most recent hurricane in Birmingham is 2016 Hurricane Matthew. Birmingham also experienced Hurricane Opal, Hurricane Ivan and Hurricane Dennis. � ese hurricanes alone caused signi� cant � ooding resulting in substantial damages. Although Birmingham is not considered a coastal community it is in a high risk hurricane zone.

To � nd out more about hurricanes that have a� ected Birmingham, please visit http://www.noaa.gov/.

Cover all of your home’s windows with permanent storm shutters or 5/8 inch marine plywood, cut to � t and ready to install (tape does not prevent windows from breaking!).

Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.

Maintain and trim trees and shrubs around your home so they are more wind resistant.

Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.

Reinforce your garage doors because if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.

Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not securely tied or strapped down.

Consider investing in a generator for possible power outage.

Take shelter on the highest � oor, if in a high-rise building.

Turn o� utilities, if instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.

Turn o� propane tanks.

Maintain a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning and � ushing toilets: � ll the bathtub and other larger containers with water.

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✦

✦

Protect Your Property from Hazard

✦

✦

✦

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan at the end of the booklet.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a hurricane.

24 2525

HURRICANES Hurricanes are large tropical storms that form over warm ocean waters. A tropical storm becomes a hurricane once its winds reach 74 miles per hour. Once a hurricane forms, experts can estimate the path it will travel and how strong it will become.

� ere are � ve categories of hurricanes with a category � ve being the most dangerous. People living in the nation’s coastal communities, particularly those along the Atlantic and Gulf Coast regions, are at highest risk. Hurricanes carry a lot of rains with it and even a� er the hurricane has subsided, it may continue to rain. In addition to dangerous winds, hurricanes can cause storm surges and tornadoes.

Over 25 hurricanes have been recorded in the Birmingham, AL since 1930. � e largest hurricane was in 1898 and was unnamed. � e most recent hurricane in Birmingham is 2016 Hurricane Matthew. Birmingham also experienced Hurricane Opal, Hurricane Ivan and Hurricane Dennis. � ese hurricanes alone caused signi� cant � ooding resulting in substantial damages. Although Birmingham is not considered a coastal community it is in a high risk hurricane zone.

To � nd out more about hurricanes that have a� ected Birmingham, please visit http://www.noaa.gov/.

Cover all of your home’s windows with permanent storm shutters or 5/8 inch marine plywood, cut to � t and ready to install (tape does not prevent windows from breaking!).

Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.

Maintain and trim trees and shrubs around your home so they are more wind resistant.

Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.

Reinforce your garage doors because if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.

Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not securely tied or strapped down.

Consider investing in a generator for possible power outage.

Take shelter on the highest � oor, if in a high-rise building.

Turn o� utilities, if instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.

Turn o� propane tanks.

Maintain a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning and � ushing toilets: � ll the bathtub and other larger containers with water.

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

Protect Your Property from Hazard

✦

✦

✦

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan at the end of the booklet.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a hurricane.

24 2526

RESPOND Listen to the radio or TV for the latest information.

Keep your weather radio handy.

Avoid using the phone except for serious emergencies.

Evacuate if you are directed by local authorities and be sure to follow their instructions.

Secure mobile homes or temporary structures (i.e. shelter) as these structures are particularly hazardous during hurricane no matter how well fastened to the ground.

Stay away from windows and glass doors.

Close all interior doors, secure and brace external door.

Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm and winds will pick up again.

Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level.

Lie on the � oor under a table or another sturdy object.

Avoid elevators.

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RECOVERAfter the winds from the hurricane passes remember:

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✦

Remember, local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information about what is happening and what you should do. However, you should listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the internet o� en for o� cial news and instructions as they become available.

Stay out of � ood waters, if possible. � e water may be contaminated or electrically charged. However, should you � nd yourself trapped in your vehicle in rising water get out immediately and seek higher ground.

Be alert for tornadoes and � ooding. If you see a funnel cloud or if local authorities issue a tornado warning take shelter underground or in an interior room away from windows. If waters are rising quickly or local authorities issue a � ood or � ash � ood warning, seek higher ground.

Stay away from downed power lines to avoid the risk of electric shock or electrocution.

Do not return to your home until local authorities say it is safe. Even a� er the hurricane and a� er � ood waters recede, roads may be weakened and could collapse. Buildings may be unstable, and drinking water may be contaminated. Please use common sense and exercise caution.

✦

26 2727

RESPOND Listen to the radio or TV for the latest information.

Keep your weather radio handy.

Avoid using the phone except for serious emergencies.

Evacuate if you are directed by local authorities and be sure to follow their instructions.

Secure mobile homes or temporary structures (i.e. shelter) as these structures are particularly hazardous during hurricane no matter how well fastened to the ground.

Stay away from windows and glass doors.

Close all interior doors, secure and brace external door.

Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm and winds will pick up again.

Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level.

Lie on the � oor under a table or another sturdy object.

Avoid elevators.

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✦

✦

✦

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✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

RECOVERAfter the winds from the hurricane passes remember:

✦

✦

✦

✦

Remember, local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information about what is happening and what you should do. However, you should listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the internet o� en for o� cial news and instructions as they become available.

Stay out of � ood waters, if possible. � e water may be contaminated or electrically charged. However, should you � nd yourself trapped in your vehicle in rising water get out immediately and seek higher ground.

Be alert for tornadoes and � ooding. If you see a funnel cloud or if local authorities issue a tornado warning take shelter underground or in an interior room away from windows. If waters are rising quickly or local authorities issue a � ood or � ash � ood warning, seek higher ground.

Stay away from downed power lines to avoid the risk of electric shock or electrocution.

Do not return to your home until local authorities say it is safe. Even a� er the hurricane and a� er � ood waters recede, roads may be weakened and could collapse. Buildings may be unstable, and drinking water may be contaminated. Please use common sense and exercise caution.

✦

26 2728

THUNDERSTORMS&

LIGHTNING

THUNDERSTORMS

& LIGHTNING

Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard- topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.

Shutter windows and secure outside doors. Be sure to close window blinds, shades or curtains to provid protection from any windows that may become damaged.

Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

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RESPOND

Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local o� cials.

Avoid contact with corded phones and devices including those plugged into electrical outlets for recharging.

Use cordless and wireless phones that are not connected to wall outlets.

Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn o� air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands; do not take a shower; do not wash dishes; and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom � xtures can conduct electricity.

Stay away from windows and doors, and stay o� porches.

Do not lie on concrete � oors and do not lean against concrete walls.

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✦

THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHTNING What is a Thunderstorm?A thunderstorm forms when moist, unstable air is li� ed vertically into the atmosphere. � e li� ing of this air results in condensation and the release of underlying heat. � e condensation forms cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds which under unstable conditions form thunderstorms and serve thunderstorms.

� e severity of storms is dependent upon the rainfall, wind-speed, amount of hail, the scope of any � ooding that may occur, and extent at which lightning is present. Severe thunderstorms pose the third highest threat to the City of Birmingham and its surrounding areas. Communities in Birmingham can expect to see thunderstorms on average 58 days per year, according to the National Weather Service.

Lightning is a bright � ash of electrical current created within a thunderstorm. All thunderstorms produce lightning and are very dangerous. If you hear the sound of thunder, then there is the strong possibility for a strike of lightning to follow.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a thunder and lightning storm.

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✦

✦ Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.

Postpone outdoor activities.

Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.✦

If thunderstorm and lightning are occurring in your area, you should:

✦

✦

✦

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

28 2929

Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard- topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.

Shutter windows and secure outside doors. Be sure to close window blinds, shades or curtains to provid protection from any windows that may become damaged.

Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

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✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

RESPOND

Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local o� cials.

Avoid contact with corded phones and devices including those plugged into electrical outlets for recharging.

Use cordless and wireless phones that are not connected to wall outlets.

Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn o� air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands; do not take a shower; do not wash dishes; and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom � xtures can conduct electricity.

Stay away from windows and doors, and stay o� porches.

Do not lie on concrete � oors and do not lean against concrete walls.

✦

✦

THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHTNING What is a Thunderstorm?A thunderstorm forms when moist, unstable air is li� ed vertically into the atmosphere. � e li� ing of this air results in condensation and the release of underlying heat. � e condensation forms cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds which under unstable conditions form thunderstorms and serve thunderstorms.

� e severity of storms is dependent upon the rainfall, wind-speed, amount of hail, the scope of any � ooding that may occur, and extent at which lightning is present. Severe thunderstorms pose the third highest threat to the City of Birmingham and its surrounding areas. Communities in Birmingham can expect to see thunderstorms on average 58 days per year, according to the National Weather Service.

Lightning is a bright � ash of electrical current created within a thunderstorm. All thunderstorms produce lightning and are very dangerous. If you hear the sound of thunder, then there is the strong possibility for a strike of lightning to follow.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a thunder and lightning storm.

✦

✦

✦ Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.

Postpone outdoor activities.

Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.✦

If thunderstorm and lightning are occurring in your area, you should:

✦

✦

✦

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

28 2930

WINTER STORMS What is a Winter Storm?Winter storms are uncommon in this region; however, Birmingham has experienced at least three major winter storm events with one occurring on, 2015, where we received 1 inch of snow which caused delays and panic. In 2014, the “Snowpocalypse” hit, which le� numerous people stranded on roadways all across the state due to sleet and ice resulting in impassable roads and abandoned cars along the interstate. In 1993, the “Storm of the Century” caused a record proportion of snowfall along with 40-50 mph winds. � e entire event resulted in the death of 14 individuals and $50+ million in damages across the State of Alabama.

Winter storms are among nature’s most impressive weather spectacles. � eir combination of heavy snow, freezing rain, and high winds can totally disrupt modern operations; closing down airports and roads, creating power outages, and downing telephone lines. Winter storms remind us of how vulnerable we are to nature’s awesome power.

A winter storm occurs when there is signi� cant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice. A winter storm can range from freezing rain and ice, to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days, or be a combination of several winter weather conditions. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures. Winter storms can occur from early autumn to late spring depending on the region of the country. Ice and heavy snowfall can knock out heat, power, and communications services for several days. Driving and walking can become extremely hazardous due to icy conditions, snowfall accumulation, low visibility, or extreme cold. People may need to stay at home or work without utilities or other services, until driving is safe. Pipes and water mains can also break during a winter storm.

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain. One of the primary concerns is the winter weather’s ability to knock out heat, power

✦

RECOVER

After the storm passes remember to: Never drive through a � ooded roadway. Turn around, don’t drown!

Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the e� ects of severe thunderstorms.

Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.

Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.

Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

If lightning strikes you or someone you know, call 9-1-1 for medical assistance as soon as possible. Please refer to the American Red Cross for more information on how to respond appropriately to these sometimes life threatening situations.

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Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.

Avoid hilltops, open � elds, the beach or a boat on the water.

Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.

Avoid contact with anything metal—tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.

Exit the roadway and safely park your vehicle. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency � ashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

30 3131

32

WINTER STORMS

WINTER STORM

S

WINTER STORMS What is a Winter Storm?Winter storms are uncommon in this region; however, Birmingham has experienced at least three major winter storm events with one occurring on, 2015, where we received 1 inch of snow which caused delays and panic. In 2014, the “Snowpocalypse” hit, which le� numerous people stranded on roadways all across the state due to sleet and ice resulting in impassable roads and abandoned cars along the interstate. In 1993, the “Storm of the Century” caused a record proportion of snowfall along with 40-50 mph winds. � e entire event resulted in the death of 14 individuals and $50+ million in damages across the State of Alabama.

Winter storms are among nature’s most impressive weather spectacles. � eir combination of heavy snow, freezing rain, and high winds can totally disrupt modern operations; closing down airports and roads, creating power outages, and downing telephone lines. Winter storms remind us of how vulnerable we are to nature’s awesome power.

A winter storm occurs when there is signi� cant precipitation and the temperature is low enough that precipitation forms as sleet or snow, or when rain turns to ice. A winter storm can range from freezing rain and ice, to moderate snowfall over a few hours, to a blizzard that lasts for several days, or be a combination of several winter weather conditions. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures. Winter storms can occur from early autumn to late spring depending on the region of the country. Ice and heavy snowfall can knock out heat, power, and communications services for several days. Driving and walking can become extremely hazardous due to icy conditions, snowfall accumulation, low visibility, or extreme cold. People may need to stay at home or work without utilities or other services, until driving is safe. Pipes and water mains can also break during a winter storm.

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain. One of the primary concerns is the winter weather’s ability to knock out heat, power

✦

RECOVER

After the storm passes remember to: Never drive through a � ooded roadway. Turn around, don’t drown!

Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the e� ects of severe thunderstorms.

Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.

Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.

Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

If lightning strikes you or someone you know, call 9-1-1 for medical assistance as soon as possible. Please refer to the American Red Cross for more information on how to respond appropriately to these sometimes life threatening situations.

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✦

✦

✦

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✦

✦

✦

✦

Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.

Avoid hilltops, open � elds, the beach or a boat on the water.

Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.

Avoid contact with anything metal—tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.

Exit the roadway and safely park your vehicle. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency � ashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

30 3133

✦

Consider Winterizing Your Vehicle –according to Ready.gov

Have a professional mechanic check your car including but not limited to these areas:

Antifreeze levels - ensure they are su� cient to avoid freezing.

Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.

Brakes - check for wear and � uid levels.

Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.

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Thermostat - ensure it works properly.

Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer � uid level.

Install good winter tires - make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

Consider Winterizing Your Home Winterize your home or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather- stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.

Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.

Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected regularly.

Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.

and communications services to your home or o� ce, sometimes for days at a time. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. � e National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in tra� c accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a winter storm.

Fuel and air fi lters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.

Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.

Lights and fl ashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.

Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.

✦

✦

✦

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

32 3334

✦

Consider Winterizing Your Vehicle –according to Ready.gov

Have a professional mechanic check your car including but not limited to these areas:

Antifreeze levels - ensure they are su� cient to avoid freezing.

Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.

Brakes - check for wear and � uid levels.

Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

Thermostat - ensure it works properly.

Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer � uid level.

Install good winter tires - make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

Consider Winterizing Your Home Winterize your home or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather- stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.

Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.

Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected regularly.

Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.

and communications services to your home or o� ce, sometimes for days at a time. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. � e National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in tra� c accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a winter storm.

Fuel and air fi lters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.

Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.

Lights and fl ashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.

Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.

✦

✦

✦

PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

32 3335

Close unused rooms during power outages to consolidate and retain heat.

Wear layered clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm.

Bring pets inside.

Never use generators, outdoor heating or cooking equipment, such as a grill, camp stove, or a gasoline or propane heater indoors.

Never heat a home with a stove.

Keep disaster supplies in your vehicle, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped, and use extra precaution on the roads.

Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing several layers of warm, loose � tting, light-weight clothing.

RECOVER

Protect yourself from dangerous weather, drive if necessary.

Set up warming shelters in your community if the power is out for more than a few days.

Go to a shelter if you do not have adequate supplies to stay warm in your home.

Learn how to shut o� water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.

Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water, if drains on � at roofs do not work.

KNOW THE TERMS

Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a winter storm hazard:

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause signi� cant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

Winter Storm Watch - A winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for more information.

Winter Storm Warning - A winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.

Blizzard Warning - Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing

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Vent all fuel-burning equipment to the outside and keep clear. Carbon monoxide (CO) - an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if you breathe it - from these sources can build up in your home, garage or camper and poison the people and animals inside. Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed or nauseated.

Keep � re extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House � res pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.

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visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.

Frost/Freeze Warning - Below freezing temperatures are expected.

For more details please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan, in Appendix A.

RESPOND

Stay indoors and avoid driving as much as possible. ✦

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34 3536

Close unused rooms during power outages to consolidate and retain heat.

Wear layered clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm.

Bring pets inside.

Never use generators, outdoor heating or cooking equipment, such as a grill, camp stove, or a gasoline or propane heater indoors.

Never heat a home with a stove.

Keep disaster supplies in your vehicle, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped, and use extra precaution on the roads.

Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing several layers of warm, loose � tting, light-weight clothing.

RECOVER

Protect yourself from dangerous weather, drive if necessary.

Set up warming shelters in your community if the power is out for more than a few days.

Go to a shelter if you do not have adequate supplies to stay warm in your home.

Learn how to shut o� water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.

Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water, if drains on � at roofs do not work.

KNOW THE TERMS

Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a winter storm hazard:

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause signi� cant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

Winter Storm Watch - A winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for more information.

Winter Storm Warning - A winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.

Blizzard Warning - Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

Vent all fuel-burning equipment to the outside and keep clear. Carbon monoxide (CO) - an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if you breathe it - from these sources can build up in your home, garage or camper and poison the people and animals inside. Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed or nauseated.

Keep � re extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House � res pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.

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visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.

Frost/Freeze Warning - Below freezing temperatures are expected.

For more details please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan, in Appendix A.

RESPOND

Stay indoors and avoid driving as much as possible. ✦

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34 3537

38

EARTHQUAKES

EARTHQUAKES

EARTHQUAKES

What is an Earthquake?An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the breaking and shi� ing of rock beneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes strike suddenly, without warning, and they can occur at any time of the year, day or night. Forty-� ve states and territories in the United States are at moderate to very high risk of earthquakes and they are located in every region of the country.

North Alabama lies in the impact zone of the New Madrid fault line, a sleeping giant that is approximately 20 times larger than California’s famed San Andreas Fault line. Activity along the fault line occasionally heats up.� e biggest earthquake in U.S. history happened in the New Madrid seismic zone in 1812.

Doorways are no stronger than any other part of a structure so don’t rely on them for protection! During an earthquake, get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on. It will help shelter you from falling objects that could injure you during an earthquake.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from an earthquake.

Designate safe places in each room of your home, workplace and/or school. A safe place could be under a piece of furniture or against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases or tall furniture that could fall on you.

Practice “drop, cover and hold on” in each safe place. If you do not have sturdy furniture to hold on to, sit on the � oor next to an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.

Keep a � ashlight and sturdy shoes by each person’s bed in case the earthquake strikes in the middle of the night.

Remember, mobile homes and homes not attached to their foundations are at particular risk during an earthquake.

Remember buildings with foundations resting on land� ll and other unstable soils are at increased risk of damage.

Bolt and brace water heaters and gas appliances to wall studs, as well as bookcases, china cabinets, and tall furniture.

Hang heavy items, such as pictures and mirrors, away from beds, couches and anywhere people sleep or sit, being sure to brace overhead light � xtures as well.

Learn how to shut o� the gas valves in your home and keep a wrench handy for that purpose.

Before you begin new construction, review Birmingham building codes and requirements.

Keep and maintain an emergency supplies kit in an easy-to-access location.

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✦ Dress in warm clothing, stay dry, and avoid prolonged exposure to cold and wind to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia.

Avoid prolonged exposure to cold and wind to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia. If you have to go outside dress in warm clothing, stay dry.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

36 3739

EARTHQUAKES

What is an Earthquake?An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the breaking and shi� ing of rock beneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes strike suddenly, without warning, and they can occur at any time of the year, day or night. Forty-� ve states and territories in the United States are at moderate to very high risk of earthquakes and they are located in every region of the country.

North Alabama lies in the impact zone of the New Madrid fault line, a sleeping giant that is approximately 20 times larger than California’s famed San Andreas Fault line. Activity along the fault line occasionally heats up.� e biggest earthquake in U.S. history happened in the New Madrid seismic zone in 1812.

Doorways are no stronger than any other part of a structure so don’t rely on them for protection! During an earthquake, get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on. It will help shelter you from falling objects that could injure you during an earthquake.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from an earthquake.

Designate safe places in each room of your home, workplace and/or school. A safe place could be under a piece of furniture or against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases or tall furniture that could fall on you.

Practice “drop, cover and hold on” in each safe place. If you do not have sturdy furniture to hold on to, sit on the � oor next to an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.

Keep a � ashlight and sturdy shoes by each person’s bed in case the earthquake strikes in the middle of the night.

Remember, mobile homes and homes not attached to their foundations are at particular risk during an earthquake.

Remember buildings with foundations resting on land� ll and other unstable soils are at increased risk of damage.

Bolt and brace water heaters and gas appliances to wall studs, as well as bookcases, china cabinets, and tall furniture.

Hang heavy items, such as pictures and mirrors, away from beds, couches and anywhere people sleep or sit, being sure to brace overhead light � xtures as well.

Learn how to shut o� the gas valves in your home and keep a wrench handy for that purpose.

Before you begin new construction, review Birmingham building codes and requirements.

Keep and maintain an emergency supplies kit in an easy-to-access location.

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✦ Dress in warm clothing, stay dry, and avoid prolonged exposure to cold and wind to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia.

Avoid prolonged exposure to cold and wind to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia. If you have to go outside dress in warm clothing, stay dry.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

36 3740

RESPONSE

If You Are Inside When the Shaking Starts: Drop, cover and hold on. Move as little as possible.

Curl up and hold on, if you are in bed. Protect your head with a pillow.

Stay away from windows to avoid being injured by shattered glass.

Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure it is safe to exit. A� er you determine that it is safe to exit use stairs rather than the elevator in case there are a� ershocks, power outages or other damage.

Be aware that � re alarms and sprinkler systems frequently go o� in buildings during an earthquake, even if there is no � re.

If You Are Outside When the Shaking Starts: Find a clear spot (i.e. away from buildings, power lines, trees, streetlights) and drop to the ground. Stay there until the shaking stops.

Pull over, if you are in a vehicle, to a clear location and stop. Avoid bridges, overpasses and power lines if possible. Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops. A� er con� rming the shaking has stopped, drive carefully, avoiding bridges and ramps that may have been damaged.

Do not get out. Wait for assistance if a power line falls on your vehicle.

Be alert for falling rocks if you are in or near unstable slopes or cli� s, and other debris. Landslides are o� en triggered by earthquakes.

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RECOVER

Remember, a� er an earthquake, the disaster may continue. Expect and prepare for potential a� ershocks, landslides and dangerous terrain. Watchout for fallen power lines or broken gas lines and stay out of damaged areas.

Drop, Cover and Hold On each time you feel an a� ershock, frequently occur minutes, days, weeks and even months following an earthquake.

Check yourself for injuries and get � rst aid, if necessary, before helping injured or trapped persons.

Put on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes and work gloves to protect against injury from broken objects.

Look quickly for damage in and around your home and get everyone out if your home is unsafe.

Listen to a portable, battery-operated or hand-crank radio for updated emergency information and instructions.

Check the telephones in your home or workplace to see if you can get a dial tone. Make brief calls to report life-threatening emergencies, Cellular devices can be used for calling and texting 911 as well.

Look for and extinguish small � res. Fire is the most common hazard a� er an earthquake.

Clean up spilled medications, bleach, gasoline or other � ammable liquids immediately.

Open closet and cabinet doors carefully as contents may have shi� ed.

Help people who require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or disabled.

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38 3941

RESPONSE

If You Are Inside When the Shaking Starts: Drop, cover and hold on. Move as little as possible.

Curl up and hold on, if you are in bed. Protect your head with a pillow.

Stay away from windows to avoid being injured by shattered glass.

Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure it is safe to exit. A� er you determine that it is safe to exit use stairs rather than the elevator in case there are a� ershocks, power outages or other damage.

Be aware that � re alarms and sprinkler systems frequently go o� in buildings during an earthquake, even if there is no � re.

If You Are Outside When the Shaking Starts: Find a clear spot (i.e. away from buildings, power lines, trees, streetlights) and drop to the ground. Stay there until the shaking stops.

Pull over, if you are in a vehicle, to a clear location and stop. Avoid bridges, overpasses and power lines if possible. Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops. A� er con� rming the shaking has stopped, drive carefully, avoiding bridges and ramps that may have been damaged.

Do not get out. Wait for assistance if a power line falls on your vehicle.

Be alert for falling rocks if you are in or near unstable slopes or cli� s, and other debris. Landslides are o� en triggered by earthquakes.

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RECOVER

Remember, a� er an earthquake, the disaster may continue. Expect and prepare for potential a� ershocks, landslides and dangerous terrain. Watchout for fallen power lines or broken gas lines and stay out of damaged areas.

Drop, Cover and Hold On each time you feel an a� ershock, frequently occur minutes, days, weeks and even months following an earthquake.

Check yourself for injuries and get � rst aid, if necessary, before helping injured or trapped persons.

Put on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes and work gloves to protect against injury from broken objects.

Look quickly for damage in and around your home and get everyone out if your home is unsafe.

Listen to a portable, battery-operated or hand-crank radio for updated emergency information and instructions.

Check the telephones in your home or workplace to see if you can get a dial tone. Make brief calls to report life-threatening emergencies, Cellular devices can be used for calling and texting 911 as well.

Look for and extinguish small � res. Fire is the most common hazard a� er an earthquake.

Clean up spilled medications, bleach, gasoline or other � ammable liquids immediately.

Open closet and cabinet doors carefully as contents may have shi� ed.

Help people who require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or disabled.

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38 3942

WILDFIRES

WILDFIRES

Keep animals under your direct control.

Stay out of damaged buildings and areas.

Return home only when authorities say it is safe to do so. Use extreme caution and examine walls, � oors, doors, staircases and windows to check for damage.

Be careful when driving a� er an earthquake and anticipate tra� c light outages.

WILDFIRES

What is a Wildfi re?� e term “wild� re” is used for uncontrolled � re that destroys forests and many other types of vegetation, as well as animal species. In some regions of the world, wild� res are caused by lightning; however, nowadays many � res are caused by people, either accidentally, as a consequence of carelessness, or arson. � ese � res o� en get out of control and spread very easily over vast areas. Depending on the type of vegetation or material being burned, they are also called forest � res, bush � res, grass � res, or peat � res.

� e elements most at risk of wild� res are forest ecosystems and other vegetation such as tree species and other plants, wildlife habitat, carbon sinks, water catchment areas, agricultural production, human health, lives and livelihoods.

Although the City of Birmingham is at a low risk for wild� res, utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond, and Recover in the event of this natural disaster.

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For more details please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

Design and landscape your home with wild� re safety in mind. Select materials and plants that can help contain � re rather than fuel it.

Use � re-resistant or noncombustible materials on the roof and exterior structure of the dwelling, or treat wood or combustible material used in roofs, siding, decking or trim with � re-retardant chemicals evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Plant � re-resistant shrubs and trees. For example, hardwood trees are less � ammable than pine, evergreen, eucalyptus or � r trees.

RESPOND

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Take your disaster supply kit, lock your home and choose a route away from the � re hazard. Watch for changes in the speed and direction of the � re and smoke. Tell someone when you le� and where you are going.

If you see a wild� re and haven’t received evacuation orders yet, call 9-1-1. Don’t assume that someone else has already called. Describe the location of the � re, speak slowly and clearly, and answer any questions asked by the dispatcher.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

40 4143

Keep animals under your direct control.

Stay out of damaged buildings and areas.

Return home only when authorities say it is safe to do so. Use extreme caution and examine walls, � oors, doors, staircases and windows to check for damage.

Be careful when driving a� er an earthquake and anticipate tra� c light outages.

WILDFIRES

What is a Wildfi re?� e term “wild� re” is used for uncontrolled � re that destroys forests and many other types of vegetation, as well as animal species. In some regions of the world, wild� res are caused by lightning; however, nowadays many � res are caused by people, either accidentally, as a consequence of carelessness, or arson. � ese � res o� en get out of control and spread very easily over vast areas. Depending on the type of vegetation or material being burned, they are also called forest � res, bush � res, grass � res, or peat � res.

� e elements most at risk of wild� res are forest ecosystems and other vegetation such as tree species and other plants, wildlife habitat, carbon sinks, water catchment areas, agricultural production, human health, lives and livelihoods.

Although the City of Birmingham is at a low risk for wild� res, utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond, and Recover in the event of this natural disaster.

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✦

For more details please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

Design and landscape your home with wild� re safety in mind. Select materials and plants that can help contain � re rather than fuel it.

Use � re-resistant or noncombustible materials on the roof and exterior structure of the dwelling, or treat wood or combustible material used in roofs, siding, decking or trim with � re-retardant chemicals evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Plant � re-resistant shrubs and trees. For example, hardwood trees are less � ammable than pine, evergreen, eucalyptus or � r trees.

RESPOND

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Take your disaster supply kit, lock your home and choose a route away from the � re hazard. Watch for changes in the speed and direction of the � re and smoke. Tell someone when you le� and where you are going.

If you see a wild� re and haven’t received evacuation orders yet, call 9-1-1. Don’t assume that someone else has already called. Describe the location of the � re, speak slowly and clearly, and answer any questions asked by the dispatcher.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

40 4144

If you are not ordered to evacuate, and have time to prepare, FEMA recommends you take the following actions:

Arrange temporary housing at a friend or relative’s home outside the threatened area in case you need to evacuate.

Wear protective clothing when outside – sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen clothes, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves and a handkerchief to protect your face.

Gather � re tools such as a rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket and shovel.

Close outside attic, eaves and basement vents, windows, doors, pet doors, etc. Remove � ammable drapes and curtains. Close all shutters, blinds or heavy non-combustible window coverings to reduce radiant heat.

Close all doors inside the house to prevent dra� . Open the damper on your � replace, but close the � replace screen.

Shut o� any natural gas, propane or fuel oil supplies at the source.

Connect garden hoses to outdoor water faucet and � ll any pools, hot tubs, garbage cans, tubs or other large containers with water.

Place lawn sprinklers on the roof and near above-ground fuel tanks. Leave sprinklers on and dowse these structures as long as possible. Be mindful of water use restrictions for areas a� ected by wild� res.

Make sure gas-powered pumps for water are fueled and ready.

Place a ladder against the house in clear view.

Disconnect any automatic garage door openers so that doors can still be opened by hand if the power goes out. Close all garage doors.

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Place valuable papers, mementos and anything “you can’t live without” inside the car in the garage, ready for quick departure.

Put any pets still with you in the car.

Place valuables that will not be damaged by water in a pool or pond.

Move � ammable furniture into the center of the residence away from the windows and sliding-glass doors.

Turn on outside lights and leave a light on in every room to make the house more visible in heavy smoke.

RECOVER

The following are guidelines for different circumstances in the period following a wildfi re: Go to a designated public shelter if you have been told to evacuate or you feel it is unsafe to remain in your home.

Call 911or seek help immediately if you are with burn victim yourself; cool and cover burns to reduce chance of further injury of infection.

Check the roof immediately a� er the � re danger has passed. Put out any roof � res or embers. Check the attic for hidden burning sparks.

Check for smoke and sparks throughout the house for several hours a� er the � re.

Do not enter your home until � re o� cials say it’s safe if you have evacuated.

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42 4345

If you are not ordered to evacuate, and have time to prepare, FEMA recommends you take the following actions:

Arrange temporary housing at a friend or relative’s home outside the threatened area in case you need to evacuate.

Wear protective clothing when outside – sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen clothes, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves and a handkerchief to protect your face.

Gather � re tools such as a rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket and shovel.

Close outside attic, eaves and basement vents, windows, doors, pet doors, etc. Remove � ammable drapes and curtains. Close all shutters, blinds or heavy non-combustible window coverings to reduce radiant heat.

Close all doors inside the house to prevent dra� . Open the damper on your � replace, but close the � replace screen.

Shut o� any natural gas, propane or fuel oil supplies at the source.

Connect garden hoses to outdoor water faucet and � ll any pools, hot tubs, garbage cans, tubs or other large containers with water.

Place lawn sprinklers on the roof and near above-ground fuel tanks. Leave sprinklers on and dowse these structures as long as possible. Be mindful of water use restrictions for areas a� ected by wild� res.

Make sure gas-powered pumps for water are fueled and ready.

Place a ladder against the house in clear view.

Disconnect any automatic garage door openers so that doors can still be opened by hand if the power goes out. Close all garage doors.

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Place valuable papers, mementos and anything “you can’t live without” inside the car in the garage, ready for quick departure.

Put any pets still with you in the car.

Place valuables that will not be damaged by water in a pool or pond.

Move � ammable furniture into the center of the residence away from the windows and sliding-glass doors.

Turn on outside lights and leave a light on in every room to make the house more visible in heavy smoke.

RECOVER

The following are guidelines for different circumstances in the period following a wildfi re: Go to a designated public shelter if you have been told to evacuate or you feel it is unsafe to remain in your home.

Call 911or seek help immediately if you are with burn victim yourself; cool and cover burns to reduce chance of further injury of infection.

Check the roof immediately a� er the � re danger has passed. Put out any roof � res or embers. Check the attic for hidden burning sparks.

Check for smoke and sparks throughout the house for several hours a� er the � re.

Do not enter your home until � re o� cials say it’s safe if you have evacuated.

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42 4346

Do NOT use water that you think may be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula.

Remain calm and pace yourself as you may � nd yourself in the position of taking charge of other people. Listen carefully to what people are telling you, and deal patiently with urgent situations � rst.

If a building inspector has placed a color-coded sign on the home, do not enter your home until you get more information, advice and instructions about what the sign means and whether it is safe to enter your home.

Remember, if you must leave your home because a building inspector says the building is unsafe, ask someone you trust to watch the property during your absence.

Use caution when entering burned areas as hazards may still exist, including hot spots, which can � are up without warning.

Evacuate immediately if you detect heat or smoke when entering a damaged building.

Do not try to open a safe or strong box immediately. It can hold intense heat for several hours. If the door is opened before the box has cooled, the contents could burst into � ames.

Avoid damaged or fallen power lines, poles and downed wires. Watch for ash pits and mark them for safety—warn family and neighbors to keep clear of the pits also.

Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control.

Avoid hidden embers and hot spots as they can burn your pets’ paws or hooves.

Wet debris down to minimize breathing dust particles.

Wear leather gloves and heavy soled shoes to protect hands and feet.

Dispose of cleaning products, paint, batteries and damaged fuel containers properly to avoid risk.

Discard any food that has been exposed to heat, smoke or soot.

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44 4547

Do NOT use water that you think may be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula.

Remain calm and pace yourself as you may � nd yourself in the position of taking charge of other people. Listen carefully to what people are telling you, and deal patiently with urgent situations � rst.

If a building inspector has placed a color-coded sign on the home, do not enter your home until you get more information, advice and instructions about what the sign means and whether it is safe to enter your home.

Remember, if you must leave your home because a building inspector says the building is unsafe, ask someone you trust to watch the property during your absence.

Use caution when entering burned areas as hazards may still exist, including hot spots, which can � are up without warning.

Evacuate immediately if you detect heat or smoke when entering a damaged building.

Do not try to open a safe or strong box immediately. It can hold intense heat for several hours. If the door is opened before the box has cooled, the contents could burst into � ames.

Avoid damaged or fallen power lines, poles and downed wires. Watch for ash pits and mark them for safety—warn family and neighbors to keep clear of the pits also.

Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control.

Avoid hidden embers and hot spots as they can burn your pets’ paws or hooves.

Wet debris down to minimize breathing dust particles.

Wear leather gloves and heavy soled shoes to protect hands and feet.

Dispose of cleaning products, paint, batteries and damaged fuel containers properly to avoid risk.

Discard any food that has been exposed to heat, smoke or soot.

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44 4548

DROUGHTS

DROUGHTS

DROUGHTS

What is a Drought?A drought is de� ned as a period of extremely dry weather. � e cause of droughts is easily understood, but hard to prevent. Depending on the location, crop failures, famine, high food prices, and deaths can occur. Unlike other forms of severe weather or natural disasters, droughts o� en develop slowly. Birmingham does not have a strong history of droughts but our goal is to prepare you for the unknown.

Droughts are caused by a depletion of precipitation over time. Unlike a dry spell, prolonged lack of rain will cause regions around the world to slowly dry out. Because of the slow onset of droughts, their cost is o� en only estimated. Frequently, droughts are billion dollar weather events and are one of the top three threats to population in the world (along with famine and � ooding).

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a drought.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips Prior to a Drought:

Avoid pouring water down the drain when there may be another use for it. For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden.

Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. One drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year.

Check all plumbing for leaks and have any leaks repaired by a plumber.

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Insulate your water pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from breaking.

Choose appliances that are more energy and water e� cient.

Consider purchasing a low-volume toilet that uses less than half the water of older models.

Install a toilet displacement device to cut down on the amount of water needed to � ush. Place a one-gallon plastic jug of water into the tank to displace toilet � ow.

Replace your showerhead with an ultra-low-� ow version.

Outdoor Water Conservation Tips Prior to a Drought: Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees. Group plants together based on similar water needs.

Plant drought-resistant lawn seed.

Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with landscape plants for water.

Avoid purchasing recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water.

Avoid installing ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use re-circulated water.

Consider rainwater harvesting where practical.

Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas.

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Retro� t all household faucets by installing aerators with � owrestrictors.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

46 4749

DROUGHTS

What is a Drought?A drought is de� ned as a period of extremely dry weather. � e cause of droughts is easily understood, but hard to prevent. Depending on the location, crop failures, famine, high food prices, and deaths can occur. Unlike other forms of severe weather or natural disasters, droughts o� en develop slowly. Birmingham does not have a strong history of droughts but our goal is to prepare you for the unknown.

Droughts are caused by a depletion of precipitation over time. Unlike a dry spell, prolonged lack of rain will cause regions around the world to slowly dry out. Because of the slow onset of droughts, their cost is o� en only estimated. Frequently, droughts are billion dollar weather events and are one of the top three threats to population in the world (along with famine and � ooding).

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a drought.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips Prior to a Drought:

Avoid pouring water down the drain when there may be another use for it. For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden.

Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. One drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year.

Check all plumbing for leaks and have any leaks repaired by a plumber.

✦

✦

✦

✦

Insulate your water pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from breaking.

Choose appliances that are more energy and water e� cient.

Consider purchasing a low-volume toilet that uses less than half the water of older models.

Install a toilet displacement device to cut down on the amount of water needed to � ush. Place a one-gallon plastic jug of water into the tank to displace toilet � ow.

Replace your showerhead with an ultra-low-� ow version.

Outdoor Water Conservation Tips Prior to a Drought: Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees. Group plants together based on similar water needs.

Plant drought-resistant lawn seed.

Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with landscape plants for water.

Avoid purchasing recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water.

Avoid installing ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use re-circulated water.

Consider rainwater harvesting where practical.

Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas.

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Retro� t all household faucets by installing aerators with � owrestrictors.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

46 4750

Repair sprinklers that spray a � ne mist. Most misting issues result from a pressure problem. Properly regulating pressure in an irrigation system will prevent misting.

Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they operate properly.

Raise the lawn mower blade to at least three inches or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the root system, and holds soil moisture.

Avoid over-fertilizing your lawn. Applying fertilizer increases the need for water. Apply fertilizers that contain slow-release, water- insoluble forms of nitrogen.

Choose a water-e� cient irrigation system such as drip irrigation for your trees, shrubs, and � owers.

Turn irrigation down in fall and o� in winter. Water manually in winter only if needed.

Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants to reduce evaporation and keep the soil cool. Organic mulch also improves the soil and prevents weeds.

Invest in a weather-based irrigation controller—or a smart controller. � ese devices will automatically adjust the watering time and frequency based on soil moisture, rain, wind, and evaporation and transpiration rates. Check with a local water agency to see if there is a rebate available for the purchase of a smart controller.

Install a new water-saving pool � lter. A single back � ushing with a traditional � lter uses 180 to 250 gallons of water.

Cover pools and spas to reduce evaporation of water.

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RESPOND

Indoor Water Conservation Tips While in a Drought: Avoid � ushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects, and other similar waste in the trash rather than the toilet.

Avoid taking baths—take short showers—turn on water only to get wet and lather and then again to rinse o� .

Avoid letting the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving.

Place a bucket in the shower to catch excess water for watering plants.

Operate automatic dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are fully loaded. Use the “light wash” feature, if available, to use less water.

Hand wash dishes as o� en as possible.

Clean vegetables in a pan � lled with water rather than running water from the tap.

Avoid wasting water waiting for it to get hot. Capture it for other uses such as plant watering or heat it on the stove or in a microwave.

Avoid rinsing dishes before placing them in the dishwasher; just remove large particles of food.

Avoid using running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods.

Defrost food in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave oven.

Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.

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48 4951

Repair sprinklers that spray a � ne mist. Most misting issues result from a pressure problem. Properly regulating pressure in an irrigation system will prevent misting.

Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they operate properly.

Raise the lawn mower blade to at least three inches or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the root system, and holds soil moisture.

Avoid over-fertilizing your lawn. Applying fertilizer increases the need for water. Apply fertilizers that contain slow-release, water- insoluble forms of nitrogen.

Choose a water-e� cient irrigation system such as drip irrigation for your trees, shrubs, and � owers.

Turn irrigation down in fall and o� in winter. Water manually in winter only if needed.

Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants to reduce evaporation and keep the soil cool. Organic mulch also improves the soil and prevents weeds.

Invest in a weather-based irrigation controller—or a smart controller. � ese devices will automatically adjust the watering time and frequency based on soil moisture, rain, wind, and evaporation and transpiration rates. Check with a local water agency to see if there is a rebate available for the purchase of a smart controller.

Install a new water-saving pool � lter. A single back � ushing with a traditional � lter uses 180 to 250 gallons of water.

Cover pools and spas to reduce evaporation of water.

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✦

✦

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✦

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RESPOND

Indoor Water Conservation Tips While in a Drought: Avoid � ushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects, and other similar waste in the trash rather than the toilet.

Avoid taking baths—take short showers—turn on water only to get wet and lather and then again to rinse o� .

Avoid letting the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving.

Place a bucket in the shower to catch excess water for watering plants.

Operate automatic dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are fully loaded. Use the “light wash” feature, if available, to use less water.

Hand wash dishes as o� en as possible.

Clean vegetables in a pan � lled with water rather than running water from the tap.

Avoid wasting water waiting for it to get hot. Capture it for other uses such as plant watering or heat it on the stove or in a microwave.

Avoid rinsing dishes before placing them in the dishwasher; just remove large particles of food.

Avoid using running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods.

Defrost food in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave oven.

Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.

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48 4952

Use a shut-o� nozzle that can be adjusted down to a � ne spray on your hose if you wash your own car.

Outdoor Water Conservation Tips While in a Drought

Avoid over watering your lawn and leaving sprinklers or hoses unattended.

Water your lawn early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler if required.

Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.

Water your lawn in short sessions rather than one long one, to absorb moisture.

Use a broom or blower instead of a hose to clean leaves and other debris from your driveway or sidewalk.

RECOVER

Strategies for drought recovery are most often geared toward agricultural and rural areas. With the City of Birmingham being an urban/suburban metropolis, there are not major steps to recovery. However, since the city is surrounded by the rural areas of Jefferson County the best step to be taken by Birmingham residents during the recovery phase following a drought is:

Always observe state and local restrictions on water use during and a� er a drought. If restricted, for example, do not water your lawn, wash your car, or use water for other non-essential uses. � is helps ensure there is enough water for essential uses.

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HEAT WAVE

What is a Heat Wave?A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat, and is o� en accompanied by high humidity. � ese conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening for humans who don’t take the proper precautions.

Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.

Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition. Older adults, young children and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to succumb to extreme heat.

Annually, Birmingham experiences days of extreme heat during the late summer months. When compared to other years in history, 2007 experienced the longest hottest waves spanning from 15 days to 30 days. � e City’s history of heat waves leads to the conclusion that experiencing another wave is not uncommon.

Conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses include stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. Consequently, people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the e� ects of a prolonged heat wave than those living in rural areas. Also, asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures known as the “urban heat island e� ect.”

Certain risks come with heat waves. According to NOAA, these risks vary in severity and include but are not limited to heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heat rash, and sunburn. � ese are the most common of risks and they all are related to the intensity of sun and heat and the reactions that the body takes.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a heat wave.

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50 5153

54

HEAT WAVE

HEAT WAVE

Use a shut-o� nozzle that can be adjusted down to a � ne spray on your hose if you wash your own car.

Outdoor Water Conservation Tips While in a Drought

Avoid over watering your lawn and leaving sprinklers or hoses unattended.

Water your lawn early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler if required.

Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.

Water your lawn in short sessions rather than one long one, to absorb moisture.

Use a broom or blower instead of a hose to clean leaves and other debris from your driveway or sidewalk.

RECOVER

Strategies for drought recovery are most often geared toward agricultural and rural areas. With the City of Birmingham being an urban/suburban metropolis, there are not major steps to recovery. However, since the city is surrounded by the rural areas of Jefferson County the best step to be taken by Birmingham residents during the recovery phase following a drought is:

Always observe state and local restrictions on water use during and a� er a drought. If restricted, for example, do not water your lawn, wash your car, or use water for other non-essential uses. � is helps ensure there is enough water for essential uses.

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✦

✦

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✦

HEAT WAVE

What is a Heat Wave?A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat, and is o� en accompanied by high humidity. � ese conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening for humans who don’t take the proper precautions.

Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.

Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition. Older adults, young children and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to succumb to extreme heat.

Annually, Birmingham experiences days of extreme heat during the late summer months. When compared to other years in history, 2007 experienced the longest hottest waves spanning from 15 days to 30 days. � e City’s history of heat waves leads to the conclusion that experiencing another wave is not uncommon.

Conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses include stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. Consequently, people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the e� ects of a prolonged heat wave than those living in rural areas. Also, asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures known as the “urban heat island e� ect.”

Certain risks come with heat waves. According to NOAA, these risks vary in severity and include but are not limited to heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heat rash, and sunburn. � ese are the most common of risks and they all are related to the intensity of sun and heat and the reactions that the body takes.

Utilize the following guidelines to Prepare, Respond and Recover from a heat wave.

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50 5155

Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.

Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.

Install temporary window re� ectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to re� ect heat back outside.

Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.

Cover windows that receive morning or a� ernoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.

Keep storm windows up all year.

Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.

Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. � ey are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.

Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the e� ects of a prolonged heat wave than are people living in rural areas.

Get trained in � rst aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.

RESPOND

What you should do if the weather is extremely hot: Listen to your local news – Accurate and updated information usually comes from the local EMA or the City of Birmingham’s Mayor’s O� ce of Citizens Assistance (MOCA) and the O� ce of Public Information.

Replace Salt and Minerals –Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body. � ese are necessary for your body and must be replaced

Wear Appropriate Clothing and Sunscreen –Wear as little clothing as possible when you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-� tting clothing. Sunburn a� ects your body’s ability to cool itself and causes a loss of body � uids. It also causes pain and damages the skin.

Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully –If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Try to rest o� en in shady areas so that your body’s thermostat will have a chance to recover.

Pace Yourself –If you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity.

Stay Cool Indoors –Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air- conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.

Use a Buddy System –When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat- induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

52 5356

Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.

Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.

Install temporary window re� ectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to re� ect heat back outside.

Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.

Cover windows that receive morning or a� ernoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.

Keep storm windows up all year.

Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.

Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. � ey are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.

Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the e� ects of a prolonged heat wave than are people living in rural areas.

Get trained in � rst aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.

RESPOND

What you should do if the weather is extremely hot: Listen to your local news – Accurate and updated information usually comes from the local EMA or the City of Birmingham’s Mayor’s O� ce of Citizens Assistance (MOCA) and the O� ce of Public Information.

Replace Salt and Minerals –Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body. � ese are necessary for your body and must be replaced

Wear Appropriate Clothing and Sunscreen –Wear as little clothing as possible when you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-� tting clothing. Sunburn a� ects your body’s ability to cool itself and causes a loss of body � uids. It also causes pain and damages the skin.

Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully –If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Try to rest o� en in shady areas so that your body’s thermostat will have a chance to recover.

Pace Yourself –If you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity.

Stay Cool Indoors –Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air- conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.

Use a Buddy System –When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat- induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day.

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PREPARE

To begin preparing, you should: Assemble a disaster supply kit Be prepared to evacuate Review your Family Disaster Plan

For more details, please refer to Building a Disaster Ready Kit and Preparing a Family Communications Plan in Appendix A.

52 5357

Monitor Those at High Risk –Although anyone at any time can su� er from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others.

Infants and young children are sensitive to the e� ects of high high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.

People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress e� ciently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature.

People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.

People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.

People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be a� ected by extreme heat.

Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.

Adjust to the Environment –Be aware that any sudden change in temperature, such as an early summer heat wave, will be stressful to your body.

Do Not Leave Children in Cars –Even in cool temperatures, cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly. Children who are le� unattended in parked cars are at greatest risk for heat stroke, and possibly death.

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RECOVER

Take this time to refurbish and out� t your home for the next extreme heat season. Renovations completed in the o� -season are generally less expensive.

Update your plans and re� ll your emergency supply kit with any items that may have been used or are expired.

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54 5558

Monitor Those at High Risk –Although anyone at any time can su� er from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others.

Infants and young children are sensitive to the e� ects of high high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.

People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress e� ciently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature.

People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.

People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.

People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be a� ected by extreme heat.

Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.

Adjust to the Environment –Be aware that any sudden change in temperature, such as an early summer heat wave, will be stressful to your body.

Do Not Leave Children in Cars –Even in cool temperatures, cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly. Children who are le� unattended in parked cars are at greatest risk for heat stroke, and possibly death.

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RECOVER

Take this time to refurbish and out� t your home for the next extreme heat season. Renovations completed in the o� -season are generally less expensive.

Update your plans and re� ll your emergency supply kit with any items that may have been used or are expired.

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54 5559

Appendix A

56 5760

Appendix A

56 5761

62

BUILDING A DISASTER READY KIT AND PREPARING A FAMILY COMMUNICATION PLAN

Plan for Your Risks� ere are actions that should be taken before, during and a� er an event that are unique to each hazard. Identify the hazards that have happened or could happen in your area and plan for the unique actions for each. Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency can help identify the hazards in your area and outline the local plans and recommendations for each. Share the hazard-speci� c information with family members and include pertinent materials in your family disaster plan.

Receive alerts regarding emergencies and other important community news by signing up for Everbridge, our emergency alert system. � is system enables us to provide you with critical information quickly in a variety of situations such as severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons and evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods. Contact Je� erson County EMA or the City of Birmingham’s Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services sta� to learn how to sign up.

Depending upon the nature of the emergency and your circumstances, one of the � rst and most important decisions is whether to stay where you are or evacuate. You should understand and plan for both possibilities.

Things to ConsiderAs you prepare, tailor your plans and supplies to your speci� c daily living needs and responsibilities. Most or all individuals have both speci� c personal needs as well as resources to assist others. You and your household and others you help or rely on for assistance should work together.

As part of tailoring your plans, consider working with others to create networks of neighbors, relatives, friends and co-workers who will assist each other in an emergency. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, pets, or speci� c needs like the operation of durable medical equipment. Create your own personal network for speci� c areas where you need assistance.

Households/individuals should consider and customize their plans for individual needs and responsibilities based on the methods of communication, types of shelter and methods of transportation available to them.

Other factors to keep in mind include: Di� erent ages of family members.

Responsibilities for assisting others.

Locations frequented.

Dietary needs.

Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment.

Disabilities or access to functional needs including devices and equipment.

Languages.

Cultural and religious considerations.

Pets or service animals.

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58 5963

BUILDING A DISASTER READY KIT AND PREPARING A FAMILY COMMUNICATION PLAN

Plan for Your Risks� ere are actions that should be taken before, during and a� er an event that are unique to each hazard. Identify the hazards that have happened or could happen in your area and plan for the unique actions for each. Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency can help identify the hazards in your area and outline the local plans and recommendations for each. Share the hazard-speci� c information with family members and include pertinent materials in your family disaster plan.

Receive alerts regarding emergencies and other important community news by signing up for Everbridge, our emergency alert system. � is system enables us to provide you with critical information quickly in a variety of situations such as severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons and evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods. Contact Je� erson County EMA or the City of Birmingham’s Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services sta� to learn how to sign up.

Depending upon the nature of the emergency and your circumstances, one of the � rst and most important decisions is whether to stay where you are or evacuate. You should understand and plan for both possibilities.

Things to ConsiderAs you prepare, tailor your plans and supplies to your speci� c daily living needs and responsibilities. Most or all individuals have both speci� c personal needs as well as resources to assist others. You and your household and others you help or rely on for assistance should work together.

As part of tailoring your plans, consider working with others to create networks of neighbors, relatives, friends and co-workers who will assist each other in an emergency. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, pets, or speci� c needs like the operation of durable medical equipment. Create your own personal network for speci� c areas where you need assistance.

Households/individuals should consider and customize their plans for individual needs and responsibilities based on the methods of communication, types of shelter and methods of transportation available to them.

Other factors to keep in mind include: Di� erent ages of family members.

Responsibilities for assisting others.

Locations frequented.

Dietary needs.

Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment.

Disabilities or access to functional needs including devices and equipment.

Languages.

Cultural and religious considerations.

Pets or service animals.

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58 5964

First Aid KitIn any emergency, a family member or you yourself may su� er an injury. If you have these basic � rst aid supplies you are better prepared to help your loved ones when they are hurt. Knowing how to treat minor injuries can make a di� erence in an emergency. You may consider taking a � rst aid class, but simply having the following things can help you stop bleeding, prevent infection and assist in decontamination.

Two pairs of latex or other sterile gloves if you are allergic to latex.

Sterile dressings to stop bleeding.

Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes.

Antibiotic ointment.

Burn ointment.

Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes.

Eye wash solution to � ush the eyes or as general decontaminant.

� ermometer.

Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers. You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates.

Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies.

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FEMA RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES LIST

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.

Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

Flashlight and extra batteries.

First aid kit.

Whistle to signal for help.

Dust mask to help � lter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

Wrench or pliers to turn o� utilities.

Manual can opener for food.

Local maps.

Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger.

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60 6165

First Aid KitIn any emergency, a family member or you yourself may su� er an injury. If you have these basic � rst aid supplies you are better prepared to help your loved ones when they are hurt. Knowing how to treat minor injuries can make a di� erence in an emergency. You may consider taking a � rst aid class, but simply having the following things can help you stop bleeding, prevent infection and assist in decontamination.

Two pairs of latex or other sterile gloves if you are allergic to latex.

Sterile dressings to stop bleeding.

Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes.

Antibiotic ointment.

Burn ointment.

Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes.

Eye wash solution to � ush the eyes or as general decontaminant.

� ermometer.

Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers. You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates.

Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies.

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FEMA RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES LIST

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.

Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

Flashlight and extra batteries.

First aid kit.

Whistle to signal for help.

Dust mask to help � lter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

Wrench or pliers to turn o� utilities.

Manual can opener for food.

Local maps.

Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger.

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60 6166

For Adults: Denture needs.

Contact lenses and supplies.

Extra eye glasses.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about storing prescription medications such as heart and high blood pressure medication, insulin and other prescription drugs.

If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat.

Think about your clothing and bedding supplies especially in cold climates. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including: Jacket or coat.

Long pants.

Long sleeve shirt.

Remember the unique needs of your family members when making your emergency supply kit and family emergency plan. Try to make emergency planning fun for young children. Gather your family members together for a quick family meeting, maybe over a pizza or before watching your favorite movie.

Talk about the questions on the Family Communication Plan for Parents and Kids and make a list of your family’s solutions.

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Non-prescription drugs: Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever.

Anti-diarrhea medication.

Antacid.

Laxative.

Other fi rst aid supplies: Scissors.

Tweezers.

Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant.

Supplies for Unique NeedsRemember the unique needs of your family members, including growing children, when making your emergency supply kit and family emergency plan.

For Baby: Formula.

Diapers.

Bottles.

Powdered milk.. Medications.

Moist towelettes.

Diaper rash ointment.

For more information about the care and feeding of infants and youngchildren during an emergency, visit the Je� erson County Department of Public Health website.

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62 6367

For Adults: Denture needs.

Contact lenses and supplies.

Extra eye glasses.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about storing prescription medications such as heart and high blood pressure medication, insulin and other prescription drugs.

If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat.

Think about your clothing and bedding supplies especially in cold climates. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including: Jacket or coat.

Long pants.

Long sleeve shirt.

Remember the unique needs of your family members when making your emergency supply kit and family emergency plan. Try to make emergency planning fun for young children. Gather your family members together for a quick family meeting, maybe over a pizza or before watching your favorite movie.

Talk about the questions on the Family Communication Plan for Parents and Kids and make a list of your family’s solutions.

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Non-prescription drugs: Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever.

Anti-diarrhea medication.

Antacid.

Laxative.

Other fi rst aid supplies: Scissors.

Tweezers.

Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant.

Supplies for Unique NeedsRemember the unique needs of your family members, including growing children, when making your emergency supply kit and family emergency plan.

For Baby: Formula.

Diapers.

Bottles.

Powdered milk.. Medications.

Moist towelettes.

Diaper rash ointment.

For more information about the care and feeding of infants and youngchildren during an emergency, visit the Je� erson County Department of Public Health website.

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62 6368

Food items containing protein such as nuts and energy bars; canned fruit and a portable can opener.

Water for each person and pet in your car.

AM/FM radio to listen to tra� c reports and emergency messages (battery powered)

Cat litter, road salt, or sand for better tire traction.

Shovel.

Ice scraper.

Warm clothes, gloves, hat, sturdy boots, jacket and an extra change of clothes.

Blankets or sleeping bags.

A fully-charged cell phone and phone charger.

Flares or re� ective triangle.

Baby formula and diapers if you have a small child.

Tow chain or rope.

Matches.

Snack food.

Tool box.

HEALTH RECORDS AND SENSITIVE DOCUMENTS

Get copies and maintain electronic versions of health records from doctors, hospitals, pharmacies and other sources and store them, for personal reference. HealthIT.gov provides an online tool intended to help people locate and access their electronic health records from a variety of sources.

KIT STORAGE LOCATIONS

Be prepared for emergencies while drivingSince you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and vehicles.

HomeYour disaster supplies kit should contain essential food, water and supplies for at least three days. Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept. Additionally, you may want to consider having supplies for sheltering for up to two weeks.

WorkYou need to be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Make sure you have food and water and other necessities like medicines in your kit. Also, be sure to have comfortable walking shoes at your workplace in case an evacuation requires walking long distances. Your kit should also be in one container and ready to “grab and go” in case you are evacuated from your workplace.

VehicleIn case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car. � is kit should include:

Jumper cables.

Flashlights and extra batteries.

First aid kit and necessary medications in case you are away from home for a prolonged time.

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Be prepared for an emergency by keeping your gas tank full and if you � nd yourself stranded, be safe and stay in your car, put on your � ashers, call for help and wait until it arrives.

64 6569

Food items containing protein such as nuts and energy bars; canned fruit and a portable can opener.

Water for each person and pet in your car.

AM/FM radio to listen to tra� c reports and emergency messages (battery powered)

Cat litter, road salt, or sand for better tire traction.

Shovel.

Ice scraper.

Warm clothes, gloves, hat, sturdy boots, jacket and an extra change of clothes.

Blankets or sleeping bags.

A fully-charged cell phone and phone charger.

Flares or re� ective triangle.

Baby formula and diapers if you have a small child.

Tow chain or rope.

Matches.

Snack food.

Tool box.

HEALTH RECORDS AND SENSITIVE DOCUMENTS

Get copies and maintain electronic versions of health records from doctors, hospitals, pharmacies and other sources and store them, for personal reference. HealthIT.gov provides an online tool intended to help people locate and access their electronic health records from a variety of sources.

KIT STORAGE LOCATIONS

Be prepared for emergencies while drivingSince you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and vehicles.

HomeYour disaster supplies kit should contain essential food, water and supplies for at least three days. Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept. Additionally, you may want to consider having supplies for sheltering for up to two weeks.

WorkYou need to be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Make sure you have food and water and other necessities like medicines in your kit. Also, be sure to have comfortable walking shoes at your workplace in case an evacuation requires walking long distances. Your kit should also be in one container and ready to “grab and go” in case you are evacuated from your workplace.

VehicleIn case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car. � is kit should include:

Jumper cables.

Flashlights and extra batteries.

First aid kit and necessary medications in case you are away from home for a prolonged time.

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Be prepared for an emergency by keeping your gas tank full and if you � nd yourself stranded, be safe and stay in your car, put on your � ashers, call for help and wait until it arrives.

64 6570

FAMILY COMMUNICATIONS

Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another. � ink about how you will communicate in di� erent situations.

Complete a contact card for each adult family member. Have them keep these cards handy in a wallet, purse or briefcase, etc. Additionally, complete contact cards for each child in your family. Put the cards in their backpacks or book bags. You can obtain an Emergency Contact card by visiting Je� erson County EMA.

Check with your children’s day care or school. Facilities designed for children should include identi� cation planning as part of their emergency plans.

Family Communication Tips:Identify a contact such as a friend or relative who lives out-of-state for household members to notify they are safe. It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members.

Be sure every member of your family knows the phone number and has a cell phone, coins or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact. If you have a cell phone, program that person(s) as “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) in your phone. If you are in an accident, emergency personnel will o� en check your ICE listings in order to get a hold of someone you know. Make sure to tell your family and friends that you’ve listed them as emergency contacts.

Teach family members how to use text messaging (also known as SMS or Short Message Service). Text messages can o� en get around network disruptions when a phone call might not be able to get through.

Subscribe to alert services. Many communities now have systems that will send instant text alerts or e-mails to let you know about bad weather, road closings, local emergencies, etc. Sign up by visiting O� ce of Emergency Management web site.

66 6771

72

Appendix B

6973

74

POST DISASTER PERMITTING PROCESSFLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

In the event of a devastating natural disaster, homes in Birmingham may be damaged. But when residents are ready to repair and rebuild, they face the usual lengthy permit process that is currently required by the local, State and Federal Government to replace or restore any structure.

Always check with the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits before you build on, alter, regrade, � ll or do any other development on your property. A Floodplain Development Permit Application must be completed and submitted for review, prior to any development taking place within a � oodplain. If you see building, � lling or any other development without a City permit sign posted, contact the Permitting Services O� ce at (205) 254-2904, as the project may increase � ooding on your property. � e City’s Floodplain ordinance requires that all new residential (including manufactured homes) buildings be elevated one foot or more above the 100-year base � ood elevation. New non-residential buildings (commercial, industrial, etc.) must be elevated or � ood proofed to a level of one foot or more above the base � ood elevation. � e ordinance also requires that all substantial improvements to a building be treated as new construction subject to elevation or � ood proo� ng. A substantial improvement means any repairs or improvements that equal or exceed 50% of the market value of the building. If you are interested in knowing all of the � oodplain ordinance development requirements, you may request a copy from the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits.

We also have copies of FEMA Elevation Certi� cates on most buildings recently constructed or substantially improved in the � oodplain.

Here are the Steps to take in order to Repair or Rebuild Your Property/Business a� er a Disaster according to the City of Birmingham Codes and Regulations:

1. Contact City of Birmingham Floodplain Management Staff. Find out if your property is located in a � oodplain area by calling (205)254-2479 to obtain the rebuild/repair requirements. If your property is determined to be in a � oodplain, follow steps below on how to obtain � ood development approval. If your property is determined NOT to be located in a � oodplain, please call (205) 254-2904 to obtain the repair/rebuild requirements for your property. Please remember that FEMA Grants and SBA low interest loans may be available.

2. Obtain an Estimate of Damage Related Repair Costs and Schedule an Interview. You will need to obtain a detailed, itemized estimate of the damages to your property caused by the disaster event. A� erwards, contact the Floodplain Management O� ce (205) 254-2479 to schedule an interview.

3. Schedule and Receive Property Disaster Related Damage Inspection. A� er the interview, a city inspector will call you to schedule and perform a property disaster related damage inspection.

4. City Reviews, Processes Information and Calculates Disaster Related Damages. � e Floodplain Management Sta� will review inspection and estimate information for completeness and reasonableness. Reviewed information is entered in FEMA approved Damage Assessment Program to calculate disaster related damage as a percent of building value.

5. City Approval and Citizen Notifi cations of Flood Protection Requirements. Damage assessment results are � nally reviewed and approved by the Floodplain Administrator. Upon approval, a determination letter is sent to resident specifying decision outcome, pertinent � ood protection requirements and instructions for obtaining your building permit.

70 7175

POST DISASTER PERMITTING PROCESSFLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

In the event of a devastating natural disaster, homes in Birmingham may be damaged. But when residents are ready to repair and rebuild, they face the usual lengthy permit process that is currently required by the local, State and Federal Government to replace or restore any structure.

Always check with the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits before you build on, alter, regrade, � ll or do any other development on your property. A Floodplain Development Permit Application must be completed and submitted for review, prior to any development taking place within a � oodplain. If you see building, � lling or any other development without a City permit sign posted, contact the Permitting Services O� ce at (205) 254-2904, as the project may increase � ooding on your property. � e City’s Floodplain ordinance requires that all new residential (including manufactured homes) buildings be elevated one foot or more above the 100-year base � ood elevation. New non-residential buildings (commercial, industrial, etc.) must be elevated or � ood proofed to a level of one foot or more above the base � ood elevation. � e ordinance also requires that all substantial improvements to a building be treated as new construction subject to elevation or � ood proo� ng. A substantial improvement means any repairs or improvements that equal or exceed 50% of the market value of the building. If you are interested in knowing all of the � oodplain ordinance development requirements, you may request a copy from the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits.

We also have copies of FEMA Elevation Certi� cates on most buildings recently constructed or substantially improved in the � oodplain.

Here are the Steps to take in order to Repair or Rebuild Your Property/Business a� er a Disaster according to the City of Birmingham Codes and Regulations:

1. Contact City of Birmingham Floodplain Management Staff. Find out if your property is located in a � oodplain area by calling (205)254-2479 to obtain the rebuild/repair requirements. If your property is determined to be in a � oodplain, follow steps below on how to obtain � ood development approval. If your property is determined NOT to be located in a � oodplain, please call (205) 254-2904 to obtain the repair/rebuild requirements for your property. Please remember that FEMA Grants and SBA low interest loans may be available.

2. Obtain an Estimate of Damage Related Repair Costs and Schedule an Interview. You will need to obtain a detailed, itemized estimate of the damages to your property caused by the disaster event. A� erwards, contact the Floodplain Management O� ce (205) 254-2479 to schedule an interview.

3. Schedule and Receive Property Disaster Related Damage Inspection. A� er the interview, a city inspector will call you to schedule and perform a property disaster related damage inspection.

4. City Reviews, Processes Information and Calculates Disaster Related Damages. � e Floodplain Management Sta� will review inspection and estimate information for completeness and reasonableness. Reviewed information is entered in FEMA approved Damage Assessment Program to calculate disaster related damage as a percent of building value.

5. City Approval and Citizen Notifi cations of Flood Protection Requirements. Damage assessment results are � nally reviewed and approved by the Floodplain Administrator. Upon approval, a determination letter is sent to resident specifying decision outcome, pertinent � ood protection requirements and instructions for obtaining your building permit.

70 7176

FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

What type of work requires Floodplain Development Review Approval?Any development taking place in the 100 Year Floodplain requires Floodplain Development review. A permit application may be obtained from the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits, 2nd Floor, City Hall, Room 210, telephone number (205) 254-2904. � e average review period is 3 to 5 working days. For information regarding fees please contact the Floodplain Management Sta� at (205) 254-2479.

Development means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited to, buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, � lling, grading, paving, excavating or drilling operations, or storage of materials or equipment.

HOW TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS?

� e applicant must completely � ll out an application for Permit to Develop in a Flood Hazard Area.

All drawings must be submitted on 18 inch by 24 inch size paper minimum.

The drawings must include the following: A site plan (including all required � ood protection information);

An emergency response plan when using dry � oodproo� ng for � ood protection;

A No-Rise Certi� cation/Analysis for � oodway developments only;

A Base Flood Elevation determination for Approximate Zone developments only;

A copy of the variance resolution for � ood-related granted variances.

All drawings that are for assembly must be sealed by an Alabama licensed architect or engineer.

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6. Apply for your Building Permits. A� er you have been noti� ed as stated in Step 5, go to the Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits, Room 210, City Hall to apply for your building permit.

72 7377

FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

What type of work requires Floodplain Development Review Approval?Any development taking place in the 100 Year Floodplain requires Floodplain Development review. A permit application may be obtained from the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permits, 2nd Floor, City Hall, Room 210, telephone number (205) 254-2904. � e average review period is 3 to 5 working days. For information regarding fees please contact the Floodplain Management Sta� at (205) 254-2479.

Development means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited to, buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, � lling, grading, paving, excavating or drilling operations, or storage of materials or equipment.

HOW TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS?

� e applicant must completely � ll out an application for Permit to Develop in a Flood Hazard Area.

All drawings must be submitted on 18 inch by 24 inch size paper minimum.

The drawings must include the following: A site plan (including all required � ood protection information);

An emergency response plan when using dry � oodproo� ng for � ood protection;

A No-Rise Certi� cation/Analysis for � oodway developments only;

A Base Flood Elevation determination for Approximate Zone developments only;

A copy of the variance resolution for � ood-related granted variances.

All drawings that are for assembly must be sealed by an Alabama licensed architect or engineer.

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6. Apply for your Building Permits. A� er you have been noti� ed as stated in Step 5, go to the Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits, Room 210, City Hall to apply for your building permit.

72 7378

STEPS TO OBTAIN FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL

1. Obtain an Application for Permit to Develop in a Flood Hazard Area.

2. Complete Permit Application and submit along with all required submittals checked on the permit application to counter sta� for application completeness review.

3. Once sta� has con� rmed that your application is complete, it will be forwarded to the Floodplain Management Sta� for plans review and approval.

4. Upon approval you will be required to sign a Floodplain Determination form, acknowledging the � ood protection requirements and/or approval conditions. Also, you may receive, as-built certi� cation forms to be completed and submitted a� er the permit is issued.

Also, please note that � oodplain development approval is contingent upon satisfactory demonstration that all applicable local, state, or federal requirements have been met.

AFTER YOUR PERMIT IS ISSUEDFor new construction, prior to beginning any vertical work, you will be required to submit a completed Lowest Floor Elevation Form, signed and sealed by a Registered Land Surveyor, Professional Engineer or Registered Architect, and the issued yellow building permit card for review and approval by Floodplain Management sta� . When approved, the yellow permit card will be signed and all construction work may resume.

Also, for new construction, you will be required to submit a completed Elevation Certi� cate or Dry Flood-proo� ng Certi� cate signed and sealed by a Registered Land Surveyor, Professional Engineer or Registered Architect and the issued yellow building permit card for review and approval by Floodplain Management Sta� just prior to receiving � nal building inspection approval. When approved, the yellow building permit card will be signed and � nal building inspection may proceed. For requirements on all other construction or development types, please contact Floodplain Management Sta� .

For all other special permitting requirements, please contact the Permitting Services O� ce or visit www.birminghamal.gov

74 7579

STEPS TO OBTAIN FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL

1. Obtain an Application for Permit to Develop in a Flood Hazard Area.

2. Complete Permit Application and submit along with all required submittals checked on the permit application to counter sta� for application completeness review.

3. Once sta� has con� rmed that your application is complete, it will be forwarded to the Floodplain Management Sta� for plans review and approval.

4. Upon approval you will be required to sign a Floodplain Determination form, acknowledging the � ood protection requirements and/or approval conditions. Also, you may receive, as-built certi� cation forms to be completed and submitted a� er the permit is issued.

Also, please note that � oodplain development approval is contingent upon satisfactory demonstration that all applicable local, state, or federal requirements have been met.

AFTER YOUR PERMIT IS ISSUEDFor new construction, prior to beginning any vertical work, you will be required to submit a completed Lowest Floor Elevation Form, signed and sealed by a Registered Land Surveyor, Professional Engineer or Registered Architect, and the issued yellow building permit card for review and approval by Floodplain Management sta� . When approved, the yellow permit card will be signed and all construction work may resume.

Also, for new construction, you will be required to submit a completed Elevation Certi� cate or Dry Flood-proo� ng Certi� cate signed and sealed by a Registered Land Surveyor, Professional Engineer or Registered Architect and the issued yellow building permit card for review and approval by Floodplain Management Sta� just prior to receiving � nal building inspection approval. When approved, the yellow building permit card will be signed and � nal building inspection may proceed. For requirements on all other construction or development types, please contact Floodplain Management Sta� .

For all other special permitting requirements, please contact the Permitting Services O� ce or visit www.birminghamal.gov

74 7580

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82

Appendix C

76 7783

84

FLOOD INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

� e 100-year � oodplain is the area that has a 1% chance of � ooding annually. � is means your property has a 26% chance of � ooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Smaller � oods have a greater chance of occurring in any year and can still create a signi� cant � ood hazard to you and your property.

In an e� ort to make a� ordable � ood insurance more available, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) a program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was established in 1968 by Congress. � e NFIP is a Federal program created by Congress to mitigate future � ood losses nationwide through sound, community-enforced building and zoning ordinances and to provide access to a� ordable, federally backed � ood insurance protection for property owners. � e NFIP is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to meet the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by � oods.

Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between local communities and the Federal Government that states that if a community will adopt and enforce a � oodplain management ordinance to reduce future � ood risks to new construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), the Federal Government will make � ood insurance available within the community as a � nancial protection against � ood losses.

On March 16, 1981 the City of Birmingham became an NFIP Community to make � ood insurance available to Birmingham residents. Since 1981, the City has satisfied the minimum NFIP participation requirements and the opportunity for Birmingham residents to obtain � ood insurance still remains.

If you purchase a home in a FEMA designated SFHA with a mortgage loan from a Federally-regulated lender, by law your lender must make certain that you obtain � ood insurance and renew it yearly. In such cases as these, you will not have to wait 30 days before your policy takes e� ect, it becomes e� ective immediately. You may want to ask your mortgage company about escrowing your premium (i.e. paying a � xed monthly amount towards your premium costs).

Financial AssistancePeriodically funding is available for those who qualify for � ood assistance.

Grants—FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA)FEMA administers the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program, and the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program.

HMGP assists in implementing long-term hazard mitigation measures following a major disaster.

PDM provides funds for hazard mitigation planning and projects on an annual basis.

FMA provides funds for projects to reduce or eliminate risk of � ood damage to buildings that are insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) on an annual basis.

Commonly funded mitigation activities include:

Acquisition – commonly known as a “buyout” is the most permanent form of mitigation. It removes the home completely and the land is converted into open space (e.g. a park). � e acquisition process is strictly voluntary. FEMA encourages all homeowners in a� ected communities to be sure they get all of the information needed about buyouts so they can make the best decision for their families and communities.

Dry Floodproofi ng – techniques applied to keep structures temporarily watertight (e.g. sealing a structure to keep � oodwaters out).

Elevation – involves physically raising an existing structure to the base � ood elevation level or higher.

Minor Localized Flood Reduction – lessens the frequency or severity of � ooding by creating retention/detention basins .

Safe Room Construction – designed to provide immediate life-safety protection for limited at-risk population that cannot evacuate out of harm’s way before an event.

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78 7985

FLOOD INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

� e 100-year � oodplain is the area that has a 1% chance of � ooding annually. � is means your property has a 26% chance of � ooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Smaller � oods have a greater chance of occurring in any year and can still create a signi� cant � ood hazard to you and your property.

In an e� ort to make a� ordable � ood insurance more available, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) a program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was established in 1968 by Congress. � e NFIP is a Federal program created by Congress to mitigate future � ood losses nationwide through sound, community-enforced building and zoning ordinances and to provide access to a� ordable, federally backed � ood insurance protection for property owners. � e NFIP is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to meet the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by � oods.

Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between local communities and the Federal Government that states that if a community will adopt and enforce a � oodplain management ordinance to reduce future � ood risks to new construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), the Federal Government will make � ood insurance available within the community as a � nancial protection against � ood losses.

On March 16, 1981 the City of Birmingham became an NFIP Community to make � ood insurance available to Birmingham residents. Since 1981, the City has satisfied the minimum NFIP participation requirements and the opportunity for Birmingham residents to obtain � ood insurance still remains.

If you purchase a home in a FEMA designated SFHA with a mortgage loan from a Federally-regulated lender, by law your lender must make certain that you obtain � ood insurance and renew it yearly. In such cases as these, you will not have to wait 30 days before your policy takes e� ect, it becomes e� ective immediately. You may want to ask your mortgage company about escrowing your premium (i.e. paying a � xed monthly amount towards your premium costs).

Financial AssistancePeriodically funding is available for those who qualify for � ood assistance.

Grants—FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA)FEMA administers the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program, and the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program.

HMGP assists in implementing long-term hazard mitigation measures following a major disaster.

PDM provides funds for hazard mitigation planning and projects on an annual basis.

FMA provides funds for projects to reduce or eliminate risk of � ood damage to buildings that are insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) on an annual basis.

Commonly funded mitigation activities include:

Acquisition – commonly known as a “buyout” is the most permanent form of mitigation. It removes the home completely and the land is converted into open space (e.g. a park). � e acquisition process is strictly voluntary. FEMA encourages all homeowners in a� ected communities to be sure they get all of the information needed about buyouts so they can make the best decision for their families and communities.

Dry Floodproofi ng – techniques applied to keep structures temporarily watertight (e.g. sealing a structure to keep � oodwaters out).

Elevation – involves physically raising an existing structure to the base � ood elevation level or higher.

Minor Localized Flood Reduction – lessens the frequency or severity of � ooding by creating retention/detention basins .

Safe Room Construction – designed to provide immediate life-safety protection for limited at-risk population that cannot evacuate out of harm’s way before an event.

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78 7986

What is Flood Insurance?Like homeowner’s insurance, � ood insurance can be provided by a local insurance agency. Although not every insurance agency o� ers � ood insurance, most of them do. As Birmingham residents are eligible to purchase � ood insurance and as every property is subject to some � ood risk, you should seriously consider purchasing � ood insurance. Flood insurance covers contents and building losses to your property caused by flooding. From structural and mechanical damage to � ood debris cleanup and � oor surfaces (like tile and carpeting), your property is protected by a � ood insurance policy, something that your homeowner’s policy does not cover. Get a � ood insurance policy it will help pay for repairs a� er a � ood and, in some cases, it will help pay the costs of elevating a substantially damaged building. Please remember that most � ood policies take e� ect 30 days a� er your purchase. � e time to consider purchasing � ood insurance is now. Visit the Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services sta� for information on � nancial assistance in terms of a � ood insurance policy.

Listed below are some key facts about fl ood insurance:

Homeowner’s insurance policies DO NOT cover damage from � oods. However, because the City of Birmingham participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), you can purchase a separate � ood insurance policy. � is � ood insurance is backed by the Federal government and is available to everyone, even properties that have been � ooded.

Any area that is NOT mapped as a Special Flood Hazard Area may qualify for a lower-cost Preferred Risk Policy. � e City of Birmingham participates in the NFIPs Community Rating System (CRS) and is currently at a Class 6. � erefore, all locations within a SFHA will receive a � ood insurance premium reduction of 20% and all locations that are NOT within a SFHA will receive a � ood insurance premium reduction of 10%.

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Some people have purchased � ood insurance because it was required by the bank for a mortgage or home improvement loan. Usually these policies only cover the building’s structure and not the contents. Due to the � ooding that happens in your area, there is usually more damage to the furniture and contents then there is to the structure. Please be sure you have contents coverage.

Do not wait for the next � ood to buy � ood insurance protection. In most cases, there is a 30-day waiting period before the NFIP coverage takes e� ect.

Contact your insurance agent for more information on rates and coverage.

In order to save our residents money we participate in the Community Rating System Program through � e National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP). CRS is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community � oodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements.

As a result, fl ood insurance premium rates are discounted to refl ect the reduced fl ood risk resulting from the community actions meeting the three goals of the CRS:

1. Reduce � ood damage to insurable property;

2. Strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the NFIP, and

3. Encourage a comprehensive approach to � oodplain management.

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� e Community Rating System (CRS) recognizes and encourages community � oodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP standards. Depending upon the level of participation, � ood insurance premium rates for policyholders can be reduced up to 45%. Besides the bene� t of reduced insurance rates, CRS � oodplain management activities enhance public safety, reduce damages to property and public infrastructure, avoid economic disruption and losses, reduce human su� ering, and protect the environment. Participating in the CRS provides an incentive to maintaining and improving a community’s floodplain

80 8187

What is Flood Insurance?Like homeowner’s insurance, � ood insurance can be provided by a local insurance agency. Although not every insurance agency o� ers � ood insurance, most of them do. As Birmingham residents are eligible to purchase � ood insurance and as every property is subject to some � ood risk, you should seriously consider purchasing � ood insurance. Flood insurance covers contents and building losses to your property caused by flooding. From structural and mechanical damage to � ood debris cleanup and � oor surfaces (like tile and carpeting), your property is protected by a � ood insurance policy, something that your homeowner’s policy does not cover. Get a � ood insurance policy it will help pay for repairs a� er a � ood and, in some cases, it will help pay the costs of elevating a substantially damaged building. Please remember that most � ood policies take e� ect 30 days a� er your purchase. � e time to consider purchasing � ood insurance is now. Visit the Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services sta� for information on � nancial assistance in terms of a � ood insurance policy.

Listed below are some key facts about fl ood insurance:

Homeowner’s insurance policies DO NOT cover damage from � oods. However, because the City of Birmingham participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), you can purchase a separate � ood insurance policy. � is � ood insurance is backed by the Federal government and is available to everyone, even properties that have been � ooded.

Any area that is NOT mapped as a Special Flood Hazard Area may qualify for a lower-cost Preferred Risk Policy. � e City of Birmingham participates in the NFIPs Community Rating System (CRS) and is currently at a Class 6. � erefore, all locations within a SFHA will receive a � ood insurance premium reduction of 20% and all locations that are NOT within a SFHA will receive a � ood insurance premium reduction of 10%.

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Some people have purchased � ood insurance because it was required by the bank for a mortgage or home improvement loan. Usually these policies only cover the building’s structure and not the contents. Due to the � ooding that happens in your area, there is usually more damage to the furniture and contents then there is to the structure. Please be sure you have contents coverage.

Do not wait for the next � ood to buy � ood insurance protection. In most cases, there is a 30-day waiting period before the NFIP coverage takes e� ect.

Contact your insurance agent for more information on rates and coverage.

In order to save our residents money we participate in the Community Rating System Program through � e National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP). CRS is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community � oodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements.

As a result, fl ood insurance premium rates are discounted to refl ect the reduced fl ood risk resulting from the community actions meeting the three goals of the CRS:

1. Reduce � ood damage to insurable property;

2. Strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the NFIP, and

3. Encourage a comprehensive approach to � oodplain management.

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� e Community Rating System (CRS) recognizes and encourages community � oodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP standards. Depending upon the level of participation, � ood insurance premium rates for policyholders can be reduced up to 45%. Besides the bene� t of reduced insurance rates, CRS � oodplain management activities enhance public safety, reduce damages to property and public infrastructure, avoid economic disruption and losses, reduce human su� ering, and protect the environment. Participating in the CRS provides an incentive to maintaining and improving a community’s floodplain

80 8188

management program over the years. Implementing some CRS activities can help projects qualify for certain other Federal assistance programs.

Flood Insurance DiscountTo encourage and reward communities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements, the Community Rating System Program (CRS) was established in 1990. � e CRS is a voluntary program under the National Flood Insurance Program that makes available to the residents of participating communities � ood insurance discounts ranging from 5% to 45% based upon the Community establishing � oodplain management programs that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. � e City of Birmingham has been a CRS Community since December 1993 and is one of only two CRS Class 6 CRS rated Communities in the State of Alabama, a� ording to Birmingham residents a 20% savings in � ood insurance premium costs. On average, this savings is approximately $100 to $200. When purchasing � ood insurance, please do not forget to ask the agent about your 20% CRS Discount.

Flood Insurance Cost� e price of a � ood insurance policy varies and depends mostly on where a property is located, (� ood zone), coverage type and amount of coverage. In high risk � ood zones, where coverage is o� en mandatory, policies generally cost more. In 2014 on average, the cost of a � ood insurance policy for $100,000 in premium coverage on a house located in a high risk � ood zone was about $800 per year. However, due to recent � ood insurance reform this amount may not re� ect current � ood insurance costs. In low to moderate risk � ood zones, where the risk of � ooding is still moderately high, lower cost � ood insurance options are available in the form of a Preferred Risk Policy (PRP). If your property is located in a low to moderate risk � ood zone, you should consider purchasing the lower cost � ood insurance. According to FEMA, approximately 20-25 percent of all � ood insurance claims are � led for properties located in low to moderate risk areas.

Preferred Risk Policy� e Preferred Risk Policy is a lower-cost option for building and contents coverage on properties located in a low to moderate risk area. It is available for both residential and non-residential properties. Regardless of which policy you choose, there is a standard 30-day waiting period, from date of purchase, before a new � ood policy goes into e� ect. However, if your lender requires � ood insurance in connection with the making, increasing, extending or renewing of your loan, there is no waiting period. Protect your property now.

ADDITIONAL TIPS AND INFORMATION

In order to avoid a delayed recovery process:

Don’t wait until a � ood event occurs before you purchase your policy. Just because you haven’t experienced a � ood yet, doesn’t mean you never will. Visit www.� oodsmart.gov to familiarize yourself with the NFIP.

Contact the NFIP at (888) 379-9531 to locate licensed insurance agents in your community or referrals of licensed � ood insurance agents.

If you receive federal disaster assistance a� er a � ood, � ood insurance purchase is mandatory in order to receive further assistance from FEMA.

If your home, apartment or business � ooded and you didn’t have � ood insurance at that time, you still can obtain � ood insurance. Contact Floodplain Management Program Sta� at(205) 254-2479 to � nd out if your property is located in a low or high risk � ood zone.

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82 8389

management program over the years. Implementing some CRS activities can help projects qualify for certain other Federal assistance programs.

Flood Insurance DiscountTo encourage and reward communities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements, the Community Rating System Program (CRS) was established in 1990. � e CRS is a voluntary program under the National Flood Insurance Program that makes available to the residents of participating communities � ood insurance discounts ranging from 5% to 45% based upon the Community establishing � oodplain management programs that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. � e City of Birmingham has been a CRS Community since December 1993 and is one of only two CRS Class 6 CRS rated Communities in the State of Alabama, a� ording to Birmingham residents a 20% savings in � ood insurance premium costs. On average, this savings is approximately $100 to $200. When purchasing � ood insurance, please do not forget to ask the agent about your 20% CRS Discount.

Flood Insurance Cost� e price of a � ood insurance policy varies and depends mostly on where a property is located, (� ood zone), coverage type and amount of coverage. In high risk � ood zones, where coverage is o� en mandatory, policies generally cost more. In 2014 on average, the cost of a � ood insurance policy for $100,000 in premium coverage on a house located in a high risk � ood zone was about $800 per year. However, due to recent � ood insurance reform this amount may not re� ect current � ood insurance costs. In low to moderate risk � ood zones, where the risk of � ooding is still moderately high, lower cost � ood insurance options are available in the form of a Preferred Risk Policy (PRP). If your property is located in a low to moderate risk � ood zone, you should consider purchasing the lower cost � ood insurance. According to FEMA, approximately 20-25 percent of all � ood insurance claims are � led for properties located in low to moderate risk areas.

Preferred Risk Policy� e Preferred Risk Policy is a lower-cost option for building and contents coverage on properties located in a low to moderate risk area. It is available for both residential and non-residential properties. Regardless of which policy you choose, there is a standard 30-day waiting period, from date of purchase, before a new � ood policy goes into e� ect. However, if your lender requires � ood insurance in connection with the making, increasing, extending or renewing of your loan, there is no waiting period. Protect your property now.

ADDITIONAL TIPS AND INFORMATION

In order to avoid a delayed recovery process:

Don’t wait until a � ood event occurs before you purchase your policy. Just because you haven’t experienced a � ood yet, doesn’t mean you never will. Visit www.� oodsmart.gov to familiarize yourself with the NFIP.

Contact the NFIP at (888) 379-9531 to locate licensed insurance agents in your community or referrals of licensed � ood insurance agents.

If you receive federal disaster assistance a� er a � ood, � ood insurance purchase is mandatory in order to receive further assistance from FEMA.

If your home, apartment or business � ooded and you didn’t have � ood insurance at that time, you still can obtain � ood insurance. Contact Floodplain Management Program Sta� at(205) 254-2479 to � nd out if your property is located in a low or high risk � ood zone.

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82 8390

Appendix D

84 8591

Appendix D

84 8592

WARNING SYSTEMS AND ALERTS

Birmingham Jefferson County Emergency Alert System(Everbridge)

� e Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) issues � ood watches (when conditions are right for � ooding) and � ood warnings (when � ooding is imminent or is in progress) for the Birmingham area through TV and radio broadcasts. Since EMA maintains 24-hour, direct contact with the National Weather Service (NWS), it can provide the latest � ood threat information. If needed, EMA can also override local cable broadcasts to provide � ood threat information, send siren-equipped vehicles to critical facilities, such as hospitals, nursing homes, public places, and send mobile address units and personnel for door-to-door warning evacuation.

Flood GaugesIt is very important for residents to know their � ood hazard. � e Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency, National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), along with United States Geological Survey (USGS) provides the City of Birmingham with access to the Nation’s treasure of climate and historical weather data and information. Currently Birmingham has a Level 1 Flood � reat Recognition System and is working towards moving to a Level 3. � e � ood threat recognition system provides Birmingham with the earliest possible noti� cations that a � ood is imminent allowing the residents to know the most vulnerable areas in the community.

Je� erson County has an elaborate network of rain and river gauges that are strategically placed on area streams and collect data used for � ood warning purposes. � ese gauges have automatic alarms that warn of threatening � ood conditions. � ese gauges can be monitored from the Emergency Operations Center remotely, and conditions are reported to the National Weather Service in Birmingham.

Emergency Services 911/Dispatch Centers� e 911 Emergency System is a locally operated telephone system capable of receiving emergency information from the public and disseminating such information to the various emergency response agencies, such as police, � re and rescue units within the local area.

Outdoor Warning System� e Je� erson County Outdoor Warning System units are strategically located throughout the County. Approximately 95 percent of the Birmingham area is covered by these units. Activation of the siren systems can be accomplished from the EOC or remotely by the EMA Duty O� cer. Speci� c locations of the units are on � le with � e Je� erson County EMA.

School Warning SystemA warning system has been established between the EOC and all school systems in Je� erson County. It consists of a transmitter at the EOC and tone-alert radio receivers at the various schools for the dissemination of emergency information. � ere are also several of these radio receivers located at the various shopping malls, and radio and television stations to warn the public of impending danger.

SkywarnProject Skywarn is a national program designed to place personnel in the � eld to spot and track tornadoes. � ese � eld personnel are trained by the National Weather Service in basic severe weather meteorology, and in how and what to report to the proper o� cials. During periods of severe weather, the spotters are dispatched to the � eld and relay reports to the NWS or the EOC. If the EOC is activated, it disseminates the appropriate warning.

86 8793

WARNING SYSTEMS AND ALERTS

Birmingham Jefferson County Emergency Alert System(Everbridge)

� e Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) issues � ood watches (when conditions are right for � ooding) and � ood warnings (when � ooding is imminent or is in progress) for the Birmingham area through TV and radio broadcasts. Since EMA maintains 24-hour, direct contact with the National Weather Service (NWS), it can provide the latest � ood threat information. If needed, EMA can also override local cable broadcasts to provide � ood threat information, send siren-equipped vehicles to critical facilities, such as hospitals, nursing homes, public places, and send mobile address units and personnel for door-to-door warning evacuation.

Flood GaugesIt is very important for residents to know their � ood hazard. � e Je� erson County Emergency Management Agency, National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), along with United States Geological Survey (USGS) provides the City of Birmingham with access to the Nation’s treasure of climate and historical weather data and information. Currently Birmingham has a Level 1 Flood � reat Recognition System and is working towards moving to a Level 3. � e � ood threat recognition system provides Birmingham with the earliest possible noti� cations that a � ood is imminent allowing the residents to know the most vulnerable areas in the community.

Je� erson County has an elaborate network of rain and river gauges that are strategically placed on area streams and collect data used for � ood warning purposes. � ese gauges have automatic alarms that warn of threatening � ood conditions. � ese gauges can be monitored from the Emergency Operations Center remotely, and conditions are reported to the National Weather Service in Birmingham.

Emergency Services 911/Dispatch Centers� e 911 Emergency System is a locally operated telephone system capable of receiving emergency information from the public and disseminating such information to the various emergency response agencies, such as police, � re and rescue units within the local area.

Outdoor Warning System� e Je� erson County Outdoor Warning System units are strategically located throughout the County. Approximately 95 percent of the Birmingham area is covered by these units. Activation of the siren systems can be accomplished from the EOC or remotely by the EMA Duty O� cer. Speci� c locations of the units are on � le with � e Je� erson County EMA.

School Warning SystemA warning system has been established between the EOC and all school systems in Je� erson County. It consists of a transmitter at the EOC and tone-alert radio receivers at the various schools for the dissemination of emergency information. � ere are also several of these radio receivers located at the various shopping malls, and radio and television stations to warn the public of impending danger.

SkywarnProject Skywarn is a national program designed to place personnel in the � eld to spot and track tornadoes. � ese � eld personnel are trained by the National Weather Service in basic severe weather meteorology, and in how and what to report to the proper o� cials. During periods of severe weather, the spotters are dispatched to the � eld and relay reports to the NWS or the EOC. If the EOC is activated, it disseminates the appropriate warning.

86 8794

Emergency Alert System (EAS)� e EAS provides a means for supplying emergency information to the public. It uses commercial radio and TV broadcast services, which are provided on a voluntary and organized basis. Radio Station WMJJ (FM 96.5) is the designated EAS based upon a contractual agreement between the station and the FCC.

Print MediaWhen time is su� cient, warnings and emergency information are provided through the print media, particularly newspapers. A camera-ready copy has been prepared for speci� c emergencies and is maintained in the EOC. � is information will be delivered to the local newspapers that will print su� cient copies for public dissemination.

Neighborhood Warning ProceduresIn some instances, additional warning must be provided to certain areas. Methods used include, but limited to, vehicle mounted public address and door-to-door warning.

Law enforcement and � re service vehicles, which are equipped with sirens and/or public address systems, will augment � xed warning devices.

Jefferson County Emergency Management Radio Net� is net provides a vital link between the EOC and local governments throughout the county using VHF and 800 MHz Radios.

Tornado WarningSirens are one of the most e� ective methods to warn the population at large in the shortest amount of time. People who may be outside of direct contact with the news and media bene� t from this greatly.

88 8995

Emergency Alert System (EAS)� e EAS provides a means for supplying emergency information to the public. It uses commercial radio and TV broadcast services, which are provided on a voluntary and organized basis. Radio Station WMJJ (FM 96.5) is the designated EAS based upon a contractual agreement between the station and the FCC.

Print MediaWhen time is su� cient, warnings and emergency information are provided through the print media, particularly newspapers. A camera-ready copy has been prepared for speci� c emergencies and is maintained in the EOC. � is information will be delivered to the local newspapers that will print su� cient copies for public dissemination.

Neighborhood Warning ProceduresIn some instances, additional warning must be provided to certain areas. Methods used include, but limited to, vehicle mounted public address and door-to-door warning.

Law enforcement and � re service vehicles, which are equipped with sirens and/or public address systems, will augment � xed warning devices.

Jefferson County Emergency Management Radio Net� is net provides a vital link between the EOC and local governments throughout the county using VHF and 800 MHz Radios.

Tornado WarningSirens are one of the most e� ective methods to warn the population at large in the shortest amount of time. People who may be outside of direct contact with the news and media bene� t from this greatly.

88 8996

Appendix E

90 9197

Appendix E

90 9198

SOURCES

NOAA-http://www.� oodsafety.noaa.gov/

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes-http://www.� ash.org/

Ready- http://www.ready.gov/� oods

American Red Cross-www.RedCross.org

FEMA-http://www.fema.gov/

GENERAL

Related WebsitesFind additional information on how to plan and prepare for natural hazards and learn about available resources by visiting the following websites:

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

American Red Cross

Ready.gov

National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS)

Ensuring Collaboration Between Government Agencies on Drought Related Issues

National Integrated Drought Information System

US Drought Monitor Current U.S. Drought Conditions

US Economic Costs of Drought NOAA Economics

National Drought Mitigation Center

Save Our Water California’s statewide program aimed at helping reduce everyday water use, created by the California Department of Water Resources and the Association of California Water Agencies

US Environmental Protection Agency

NOAA Watch

US Fire Administration

USDA Forest Service

Firewise.org sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association

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92 9399

SOURCES

NOAA-http://www.� oodsafety.noaa.gov/

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes-http://www.� ash.org/

Ready- http://www.ready.gov/� oods

American Red Cross-www.RedCross.org

FEMA-http://www.fema.gov/

GENERAL

Related WebsitesFind additional information on how to plan and prepare for natural hazards and learn about available resources by visiting the following websites:

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

American Red Cross

Ready.gov

National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS)

Ensuring Collaboration Between Government Agencies on Drought Related Issues

National Integrated Drought Information System

US Drought Monitor Current U.S. Drought Conditions

US Economic Costs of Drought NOAA Economics

National Drought Mitigation Center

Save Our Water California’s statewide program aimed at helping reduce everyday water use, created by the California Department of Water Resources and the Association of California Water Agencies

US Environmental Protection Agency

NOAA Watch

US Fire Administration

USDA Forest Service

Firewise.org sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association

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92 93100

� e National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) Listen to Local O� cials

Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management o� cials.

NOAA O� ce of Climate, Water, and Weather Services.

National Integrated Drought Information System.

Center For Disease Control and Prevention.

LISTEN TO LOCAL OFFICIALSLearn about the emergency plans that have been established for your area by the city, county or state. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management o� cials.

� e Department of Planning Engineering and Permitting Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services provides answers to your � oodplain questions. If you want to know if a property is in the Special Flood Hazard Area, check our website at http://www.birminghamal.gov/about/eservices/online-mapping/. You’ll � nd a wealth of information about the City’s Flood Insurance Rate Map, hazard areas, � ood depths at your property, natural conservation areas and wetlands, � ood insurance, special rules for building in the � oodplain, and ideas for protecting your property from � ood damage. Also, you may call the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permitting with all of your floodplain questions at (205) 254-2479.

We also have copies of FEMA Elevation Certi� cates on most buildings constructed or substantially improved in the � oodplain.

For further information, contact theFloodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services at

(205) 254-2479

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94 95101

� e National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) Listen to Local O� cials

Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management o� cials.

NOAA O� ce of Climate, Water, and Weather Services.

National Integrated Drought Information System.

Center For Disease Control and Prevention.

LISTEN TO LOCAL OFFICIALSLearn about the emergency plans that have been established for your area by the city, county or state. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management o� cials.

� e Department of Planning Engineering and Permitting Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services provides answers to your � oodplain questions. If you want to know if a property is in the Special Flood Hazard Area, check our website at http://www.birminghamal.gov/about/eservices/online-mapping/. You’ll � nd a wealth of information about the City’s Flood Insurance Rate Map, hazard areas, � ood depths at your property, natural conservation areas and wetlands, � ood insurance, special rules for building in the � oodplain, and ideas for protecting your property from � ood damage. Also, you may call the Department of Planning, Engineering and Permitting with all of your floodplain questions at (205) 254-2479.

We also have copies of FEMA Elevation Certi� cates on most buildings constructed or substantially improved in the � oodplain.

For further information, contact theFloodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services at

(205) 254-2479

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94 95102

Appendix F

96 97103

104

Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to � nd the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).

You can call 1(888) � ood29 to learn more about � ood insurance.

Contact the Je� erson County Health Department at (205) 933-9110 for information on removing mold.

Je� erson County Department of Public Health website:http://www.jcdh.org/

Contact the City of Birmingham Floodplain Management Sta� at (205) 254-2479 for FEMA Disaster Assistance Information.

FEMA Grants and SBA Low Interest Loans may be available.

POST DISASTER CONTRACTOR SERVICES INFORMATION

Contact: Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) at (205) 324-6202 or go to the website: www.bcia1.org and the Better Business Bureau at (205) 558-2222 or go to the website:

www.birmingham-al.bbb.org

Contact the State Attorney General’s O� ce if you think you are a victim of contractor’s fraud. Contact the O� ce of Consumer A� airs Division at 1-800-392-5658 or go to the website:

www.ago.state.al.us

Contact the City of Birmingham Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits at (205) 254-2904 for more information on building permits and regulations.

www.birminghamal.gov

If you think you are a victim of contractor’s fraud, contact the O� ce of Consumer A� airs Division at 1-800-392-5658 or go to the website:

www.ago.state.al.us

If you are a Birmingham Citizen and you would like more information about carbon monoxide detectors, please contact the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau at (250) 254-7540 or call the Department’s Public Education Bureau at (205) 250-7525.

Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 254-2479Stormwater Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 254-2479Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 254-6314Department of Planning Engineering and Permits (205) 254-2340Permitting Services O� ce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 254-2904City Engineer’s O� ce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 254-2488Mayor’s O� ce of Citizens Assistance (MOCA) . . . .(205) 254-2633Non-Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .311 or (205) 254-6314Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911Je� erson County EMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 254-2039Je� erson County Environmental Services . . . . . . . . (205) 942-0681FEMA Disaster Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-621 FEMA 1-800-462-7585 TDDJe� erson County Health Department . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 933-9110American Red Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 795-8700ALAGASCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 292-4008Alabama Power Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-888-2726Birmingham Water Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 244-4000

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

98 99105

Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to � nd the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).

You can call 1(888) � ood29 to learn more about � ood insurance.

Contact the Je� erson County Health Department at (205) 933-9110 for information on removing mold.

Je� erson County Department of Public Health website:http://www.jcdh.org/

Contact the City of Birmingham Floodplain Management Sta� at (205) 254-2479 for FEMA Disaster Assistance Information.

FEMA Grants and SBA Low Interest Loans may be available.

POST DISASTER CONTRACTOR SERVICES INFORMATION

Contact: Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) at (205) 324-6202 or go to the website: www.bcia1.org and the Better Business Bureau at (205) 558-2222 or go to the website:

www.birmingham-al.bbb.org

Contact the State Attorney General’s O� ce if you think you are a victim of contractor’s fraud. Contact the O� ce of Consumer A� airs Division at 1-800-392-5658 or go to the website:

www.ago.state.al.us

Contact the City of Birmingham Department of Planning, Engineering & Permits at (205) 254-2904 for more information on building permits and regulations.

www.birminghamal.gov

If you think you are a victim of contractor’s fraud, contact the O� ce of Consumer A� airs Division at 1-800-392-5658 or go to the website:

www.ago.state.al.us

If you are a Birmingham Citizen and you would like more information about carbon monoxide detectors, please contact the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau at (250) 254-7540 or call the Department’s Public Education Bureau at (205) 250-7525.

Floodplain Management and Disaster Mitigation Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 254-2479Stormwater Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 254-2479Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 254-6314Department of Planning Engineering and Permits (205) 254-2340Permitting Services O� ce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 254-2904City Engineer’s O� ce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 254-2488Mayor’s O� ce of Citizens Assistance (MOCA) . . . .(205) 254-2633Non-Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .311 or (205) 254-6314Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911Je� erson County EMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 254-2039Je� erson County Environmental Services . . . . . . . . (205) 942-0681FEMA Disaster Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-621 FEMA 1-800-462-7585 TDDJe� erson County Health Department . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 933-9110American Red Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 795-8700ALAGASCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 292-4008Alabama Power Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-888-2726Birmingham Water Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (205) 244-4000

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

98 99106

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Denise P. Bell, CFM, E.S.Floodplain Administrator

denise.bell@birminghamal.gov

Amber L. GrayCRS Coordinator, Senior Planner amber.gray@birminghamal.gov

CITY OF BIRMINGHAMPLANNING, ENGINEERING AND PERMITS

CITY HALL710 NORTH 20TH STREET / ROOM 500

BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203

(205) 254-2479

PEP–#16-001526–DEC 2016

HURRICANES

KNOW YOUR HAZARDLearn about the measures you can take to protect you and your property from the damaging effects of flooding, wind, ice and other natural hazards.

CITY OF BIRMINGHAM’SFLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT &

DISASTER MITIGATION SERVICES

Community Resource & Resiliency Guide

WINTER STORMS