In observation of Severe Weather Awareness Week, February 3 - 9, 2008, Dawson County will participate in the statewide tornado drill on Friday, February 8.  A test tornado warning will be issued around 9:10 am on NOAA Weather Radio.

Georgia averages around six tornadoes each year, usually occurring between March and May. Tornadoes can produce wind speeds of over 250 miles per hour and can damage a path more than a mile wide and 50 miles in length. Tornadoes occur most often between the hours of 3:00pm and 9:00pm.

Dawson County Emergency Management Director Billy Thurmond urges citizens to keep these GEMA tornado safety tips in mind:

· Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.
· If a warning is issued or a tornado is imminent, move to a shelter such as a basement or interior hallway.
· If outside, seek shelter in a safe building, ditch or low area.
· Do not remain in, or take shelter in, mobile homes.
· Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle or remain in a vehicle during a tornado – take shelter in a ditch or low area.
Protect your family. Have a safety plan of action before threatening weather develops.

For more information contact Dawson County Emergency Services at 706-344-3666 or visit www.dawsoncounty.org  or www.gema.state.ga.us.