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By Elisabeth Altamirano-Smith/ Community Columnist

February 21-26 is Severe Weather Awareness Week, and it comes at an opportune time for individuals to make a severe weather plan for their home. While local residents have recently celebrated snow days in Alabama, unexpected weather has left many with broken pipes, emergency situations and life-threatening driving conditions. Ivey and the State of Alabama have stated that in order for individual weather plans to be successful they must include: knowledge of terminology, such as a “warning” and “watch”, knowledge of weather safety rules, reliable method of receiving emergency weather information, a designation of an appropriate shelter and a drill to test the plan.

A severe weather “warning” means that the individual should ACT NOW because the severe weather is occurring. A “watch” means that you should prepare for the possibility of severe weather.

From Feb. 21-26, the City of Clanton will have a limited number of free weather radios to distribute to the community on a first come, first-served basis. The radios will be available for distribution during normal business hours at Chilton Senior Center (on Enterprise Road), Martin Funeral Home, MorLyn’s Fine Jewelry, Chilton County Senior Connection and the West End Community Watch.  Even though the City of Clanton is providing the radios, they will be available to county residents, and anyone who requests one while in supply.

The weather radios alerts households to imminent weather occurring in the area such as tornados, straight-line winds, hurricane, hail, flooding and other dangerous weather conditions. The radio runs on a 24-hour automated network and are designed to give notifications even during power outages.

The City of Clanton encourages everyone to be safe, weather aware and have a plan in place before dangerous weather conditions arrive. The City also recommends not to solely depend on tornado sirens for a warning. Utilize smart phone apps and weather radios as well.

For more information, contact one of the area distribution locations or the City of Clanton at 205-755-4051.