GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — The second-largest county in Georgia is preparing for Hurricane Isaias.
Channel 2 Gwinnett County Bureau Chief Matt Johnson was at a news conference on Friday as county leaders say they are concerned about power outages.
“The wind risk is probably going to bring power outages throughout the county,” Deputy Emergency Management Director Kevin Hill said.
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On Friday, county leaders announced firefighters added a swift water rescue team and police added personnel ahead of Hurricane Isaias.
“Our officers who are certified and maintain chainsaws will be available in clearing roadways to ensure safe travel if necessary,” Gwinnett County Deputy Police Chief Steven Shaw said.
Firefighters have extra crews on hand for downed trees and police have opened a command center they are calling their war room. Sheriff’s deputies are on call to help police close roads.
Gwinnett County’s Transportation Director Edgardo Aponte had a message for drivers who head out on the roads on Saturday.
“If you come across a signal that’s out, treat the intersection as an all-way stop,” he said.
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Drivers who see a dark signal or downed tree or blocked road can call the non-emergency line and save 911 for emergencies.
County leaders want to also make sure that everyone is stocked up on water, food that can keep for a few days and medication.
“Go ahead and get that because that will help you stay off the roadway when it is needed for first responders,” Gwinnett County Fire Chief Fred Cephas said.
Emergency management officials add that you should be making sure your storm information comes from official sources, not unverified accounts on social media.
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