The City of Jackson is warning residents about disaster preparedness as Mississippians prepare for tropical storm Francine to hit the state after making landfall in Louisiana on Wednesday.
Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba declared a state of emergency on Tuesday.
“We do expect flooding. We expect some strong winds,” City of Jackson Communications Director Melissa Faith-Payne said during a Tuesday evening press conference at City Hall.
Payne reminded residents to avoid driving through flooded areas.
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The City will open the Jackson Police Training Academy at 3000 St. Charles St. at noon on Wednesday, Sept. 11, as a shelter to those escaping the storm, JPD Chief Joseph Wade said.
Volunteers with the American Red Cross will be on hand at the shelter.
Due to the amount of calls he anticipates the police department will receive amid the storm, residents should not call 911 for non-emergency police services, the police chief said.
“If it is not a life-threatening situation, please use our administrative number, 601-960-1234. If it is an emergency, of course, please contact 911. Let’s not bog the line down with administrative calls,” Wade said.
In case of power outages, residents should also avoid using portable generators inside their homes, Jackson Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Cleotha Sanders said. “Do not use your generators inside of your home. Make sure you’re using your generators as far away from your home, windows and doors as possible.”
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