Bedford: Important to register your storm shelter

 

In the spring severe weather season, officials of Bedford County Emergency Management Agency say it's important to take a moment to register your storm shelter to aid the response of Bedford County Emergency Responders.  Emergency services plan their response based on what they know exists in an area. Storm shelter registration tells them where shelters are located, what type they are, and how many people they can protect. This information helps crews decide where to check first after a storm passes. For people settled in rural areas, registration is particularly important. Properties are spread out, addresses aren’t always obvious, and shelters may be hidden behind homes, trees, or outbuildings. When a shelter is registered, responders can simply tap into the data and locate it. After a tornado, emergency crews may only focus on visible structures instead of checking a shelter that isn’t listed anywhere. This delay can turn into a serious problem when people inside need assistance. Registration also helps on a larger scale. When multiple areas are affected, knowing where shelters are located helps emergency teams prioritize routes and resources. How to Register Your Storm Shelter: Simply visit the Storm Shelter Registry page on the BCEMA website, https://www.bedfordtnema.com/shelter-registry. If you need help registering, call 931-735-6927.