Macon-Bibb EMA Distributes Hundreds of Weather Radios Ahead of Severe Storms

In preparation for severe storms forecasted to impact Georgia between March 14-16, the Macon-Bibb Emergency Management Agency (EMA) distributed free NOAA weather radios and pillow shaker/strobe light combo packs to help residents stay informed and safe.

The giveaway took place at City Hall the day before the storms were expected to arrive. During the three-hour event, 870 weather radios and 160 pillow shakers were distributed to Macon-Bibb County families. The pillow shaker and strobe light combo packs were designed to assist individuals who are hard of hearing.

“Our goal was to get as many of these as possible into people’s homes ahead of the storms because they, along with MBCAlert, are the quickest and most effective ways to get people accurate information in an emergency,” said EMA Director Spencer Hawkins. “I was both overwhelmed and excited to see the turnout for our giveaway. I hope that our community continues to prioritize preparedness and helps share the message that the time to prepare is now.”

The EMA continues to distribute these weather safety devices at their offices at 700 Poplar Street, next to City Hall. Residents can pick them up Monday through Thursday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Due to limited supply, there is a limit of one radio per household, but individuals may pick up an additional device for a disabled family member or friend.

Residents can sign up for MBCAlert by going to www.maconbibb.us/mbcalert, and people are encouraged to follow the Agency on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Hawkins also wants to stress to people that follow local media and weather forecasters on their social media channels to make sure they get as much information as possible about emergencies and severe weather.