Getting residents safely out of harm's way in a disaster depends on solid preparedness planning and on cooperation from everyone affected. Evacuations mean opening emergency shelters for displaced residents, and city departments must coordinate closely during an emergency to keep essential services running.
The city's Emergency Management Department explains the outdoor warning siren system and what to do when the sirens sound, how to prepare and plan for disasters, and where to find evacuation and shelter information.
Fredville operates two flood-warning systems that alert residents to high water and flooded roads. Where Sweetgum Creek crosses Wrenfield Parkway, the Traffic Division installed a flashing "Do Not Enter" signal that switches on automatically as the water rises, warning drivers of dangerous conditions. On Harbor Main Street in east Fredville, signs triggered by water depth stand near a railroad underpass; their flashing lights tell motorists when high water has made the underpass impassable.
When heavy rain falls, the city's street drainage crew is on call around the clock, checking roads for flooding. Crews place barricades to close flooded streets and keep drivers out of high water.
Road closure decisions are also guided by the city's real-time rain and stream gauge network, which includes 18 gauges placed across Fredville. The city also takes part in a regional weather radar network that reports current conditions.
If flooding threatens and the city recommends evacuation, notices will go out on local radio and cable television.
Weather information reaches the city from NOAA Weather Radio, which broadcasts around the clock, and from National Weather Service offices in Texas. For questions about evacuation notices, procedures and shelters, call the local line at (555) 010-3093.
To reach the Emergency Management Department, call (555) 010-5336 or visit the emergency preparedness pages.
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