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Shoals residents asked to 'be ready'

By Josh Ault  bio|e-mail

FLORENCE, AL (WAFF)- Governor Bob Riley visited the Shoals Thursday to promote National Preparedness Month. 

Emergency personnel from across the Shoals came to show off what they use in case of an emergency.

The best of what the Shoals area has for emergencies was shown off at McFarland Park.  From water rescues in the Tennessee River, to military power stationed in the Shoals.

Lots of people got a first hand look at how the Shoals is prepared.

"I was amazed," said Diann Vaven, a Killen resident, "I didn't know we had so much."

The main goal of Thursday's 'Be Ready' event is getting the word out to families about the need to be prepared.

"They need to have a kit," said Jim Walker, director of the Alabama Department of Homeland Security, "A plan to communicate with their loved ones, need to listen to emergency announcements."

Walker says families need to be able to sustain themselves for at least 72 hours in an emergency.

"Its just to remind people we have good federal services," said Governor Bob Riley, "State services, and county and city services.  Ultimately it will be up to the families."

Governor Riley spoke to a large crowd along the banks of the Tennessee River.

The Alabama Department of Homeland Security has gone to 6 different cities in the state to spread this message.

"Our message is," explained Walker, "The Florence area will be ready to respond to citizens needs, but the purpose of this day is to encourage our citizens that they need to do their part to be ready as well."

The Alabama Department of Homeland Security will also be holding a 'Be Ready' camp for sixth graders.  It will be held at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center starting next week.

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