Heed the Warning
WWYD Wednesday
Your phone sounds an Emergency Alert: “MANDATORY EVACUATION. LEAVE IMMEDIATELY.” You look around, but nothing seems wrong.
On social media, some people call the alert fake or say not to trust it. Others are already packing their vehicles and leaving. You have children at home, pets to consider, and only the information in front of you.
WWYD: leave immediately, wait for additional confirmation, follow social media advice, or take another action? What would guide your decision?
Fact Check Friday
Emergency alerts provide timely warnings about threats such as severe weather, flash floods, wildfires, and evacuations. Read the message carefully and follow the action it advises.
If an official alert tells you to evacuate immediately, act promptly. Do not delay leaving while waiting for social media comments to confirm the danger. Check official updates as you take the advised protective action.
Use trusted sources such as your local emergency management agency, official government channels, the National Weather Service, and NOAA Weather Radio. Social media comments are not verification.
Read the alert. Take appropriate action. Verify through official sources and keep monitoring for updates. Prepared Not Panicked.