BLAIR - After consulting with Norman weather officials, last Friday’s tornado in Blair has been rated as an EF-0 event, according to Emergency Management officials in Jackson County.

“Thanks to all volunteers who gathered damage and assessed homes,” said Wayne Cain, Jackson County Emergency Manager.

“If you need any assistance or information, Jackson County Emergency Management stands ready to help.”

Among the agencies helping were the American Red Cross, Blair Fire Department, Friendship Fire Department, Warren Fire Department, Altus Skywarn Association, County Commisser Marty Clinton, Chip Pruitt. foreman for District One, and District One crew, and Blair Emergency Management.

Events such as these bring to the forefront the need for planning by citizens, according to Lloyd Colston, City of Altus Emergency Management. Early discussions by the weather officials brought the attention of the possibility of storms to Oklahoma days in advance.

Colston encouraged area residents to not rely on storm sirens as their only warning source. All-Hazards weather radios, cellphone text messages, email, KWHW and KSWO all are ways to get weather information and warnings.

Persons wishing additional information may contact Cain at 580.482.0229, Colston at 580.481.2260, or Davis at the Blair Fire Department while http://altusem.blogspot.com offers emergency management tips for the local area.