CEO Thurmond: ‘Properly Reporting Emergencies Can Expedite Coordinated Response’

With Hurricane Helene predicted to result in widespread downed trees, power outages, blocked roadways and localized flooding, DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond urges residents to be aware of how to report emergencies for an expedited response.

“We urge residents to stay off the roads, and if necessary, properly reporting emergencies can expedite a coordinated response by the appropriate department or agency tasked with handling the issue,” CEO Thurmond said.

In case of emergency, residents should call:

• 911 for:
  • Life-threatening emergencies
  • All downed trees and power lines
  • Localized flooding

• 404-294-2911 for:
  • Other non-life-threatening emergencies

• 770-270-6243 for:
  • Water outages and sewer spills

• 1-888-891-0938 for:
  • Georga Power outages 

Residents are to stay off of roads to allow emergency vehicles to safely and quickly respond to the effects of Hurricane Helene.

DeKalb citizens and stakeholders are encouraged to sign up for CodeRED, a system used to call, email or text in the event of an emergency or severe weather warning. Notifications are based on the location registered in the system. All information is kept private. Citizens can sign up at www.dekalbcountyga.gov by clicking CodeRED at the top of the home page. 

DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) has activated its Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the emergency response to Hurricane Helene.

DEMA encourages residents to be prepared and stay informed. Rely on information from official sources, such as the National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center, local and state emergency management and local media. 

All citizens should have a basic emergency preparedness kit and plans for each member of the family including pets, children, elderly or other unique needs. These plans should anticipate power outages, flooding and sheltering in place.