Lockwood Residents to Participate in Flood Evacuation Drill on Dec. 13

Residents of Lockwood will have the opportunity to practice emergency preparedness during a flood evacuation drill scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 13, at 8 a.m., Storey County officials announced. 

The drill, coordinated by Storey County Emergency Management, the Fire Protection District, and the Sheriff’s Office, is designed to help residents test evacuation procedures and give local responders a chance to evaluate coordination and communication systems. 

To prepare the community, county officials hosted an informational Town Hall on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Lockwood Senior Community Center (800 Peri Ranch Road). The session covered what residents can expect during the drill, including evacuation routes, Smart911 alerts, and steps families can take to stay safe. 

“Flooding can happen quickly, and having a plan in place is essential,” said Adam Wilson, director of Storey County Emergency Management. “Practicing evacuation procedures ahead of time ensures residents feel confident and ready if an emergency occurs.” 

Residents participating in the drill will receive a Smart911 alert by text, phone call, or email instructing them to evacuate. Participants are encouraged to pack go-bags with essentials, such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and important documents, but there is no need to include pets or livestock. The evacuation route will be shared via Smart911 alerts on the morning of the drill. 

Officials also encouraged residents to share information with neighbors who may not be active on social media, noting that community engagement is critical to a successful drill. 

Smart911, the county’s official emergency notification system, provides alerts to registered residents and allows them to receive information by phone, text, or email. Residents can sign up at http://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=storeycounty.   

The drill is part of a broader effort by Storey County to increase preparedness for natural hazards, following lessons learned from past emergencies in the region. County officials said drills like this help identify gaps in planning, improve coordination between agencies, and give residents confidence in their family emergency plans. 

“Everyone in Lockwood benefits when residents and agencies practice together,” Wilson said. “It’s a chance to learn, ask questions, and make sure your household knows exactly what to do in the event of a flood.” 

For more information, contact Storey County Emergency Management at 775-847-3577 or visit www.storeycounty.org/297/Emergency-Management.