Get a Free NOAA Weather Radio Next Week

There’s a chance for you to get a free NOAA Weather/All Hazard Alert Radio next week.

Marshall County Emergency Management Agency Director Clyde Avery says the effort is part of Severe Weather Preparedness Week next week.

“We’re going to be giving away a limited number of all hazard emergency alert radios that were provided to us by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, as well as some that I was able to purchase through some grant funds that were available,” said Avery.

These radios allow residents to get immediate weather information.

“The information is provided by the National Weather Service. The radios provide alert information regarding severe weather that could impact our area as well as information regarding any other type of emergencies or disasters that may impact the community.”

Avery says it’s not always the best practice to rely solely on outdoor sirens.

“A lot of people rely on outdoor warning sirens. Unfortunately, outdoor sirens are geared toward people who are outside at the time that severe weather is approaching. It alerts them to go indoors. They’re not placed in all areas of the community, so it makes it difficult for people in rural areas to get information in a timely manner.”

To get your free NOAA Weather/All Hazard Alert Radio, go to the EMA office on the second floor of the Marshall County Building in Room 207 on Wednesday, March 18 from 10 a.m. until noon ET. Radios will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. You will need to bring three AA batteries with you so your radio can be programmed. Supplies are limited.

More information on how to prepare for other types of hazards in Marshall County, call the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency at (574) 936-3740.