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As we head into the fall season, it's a great time to think about how prepared we are for unexpected emergencies. That's where Tune It Tuesday comes in, an initiative from the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency that's all about getting folks ready.

Set for September 16, 2025, this event encourages everyone to check and tune their emergency radios and alert systems. For us in Sumner County, it's a reminder that being informed can make a huge difference when storms or other crises hit.

I remember last year's tornado warnings that swept through parts of Hendersonville and Gallatin. Having a reliable way to get updates was crucial for many families. Tune It Tuesday builds on that idea, pushing residents to ensure their devices are set up properly. It's not just about owning a radio; it's about knowing how to use it effectively.

The event ties into National Preparedness Month, which runs throughout September. TEMA is hosting virtual sessions and local meetups to guide people through the process. In Sumner County, you can join in at Lowe’s: 1301 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066 from 4pm - 7pm.

What Exactly Is Tune It Tuesday?

At its core, Tune It Tuesday is a statewide push to "tune" your emergency communication tools. That means testing weather radios, signing up for alert apps, and even practicing with family on what to do when notifications come through. TEMA emphasizes that preparation isn't a one time thing; it's ongoing.

For Sumner County residents, this is particularly relevant given our history with severe weather. Think about the floods back in 2010 or more recent wind events. The agency provides free checklists and tutorials, making it easy to follow along.

One key focus is NOAA Weather Radios. These devices broadcast continuous updates from the National Weather Service. On Tune It Tuesday, TEMA urges everyone to program theirs with the correct frequency for our region, which is 162.475 MHz for much of Sumner County.

Local Spots to Get Involved

If you're looking to participate hands on, Sumner County has a few locations stepping up. The Sumner County Emergency Management Office in Gallatin is offering a drop in session from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the 16th. They'll have experts on site to help with radio setups and answer questions.

Over in Hendersonville, the public library is hosting a workshop at 1 p.m., complete with demonstrations. It's family friendly, so bring the kids along to learn together. Portland's community center is also joining in with an evening event starting at 6 p.m., focusing on app based alerts for those who prefer digital options.

These spots are chosen because they're central and accessible. Gallatin, being the county seat, makes sense as a hub. Hendersonville's library is always a go to for educational events, and Portland rounds it out for northern residents.

Tips for Sumner County Families

Getting started doesn't have to be complicated. First, check if you have a weather radio. If not, they're affordable at local stores like Walmart in Gallatin or online. TEMA recommends models with Specific Area Message Encoding, or SAME, which targets alerts to Sumner County specifically.

Next, download apps like the FEMA app or local ones from Sumner County EMA. Test them on Tune It Tuesday to ensure push notifications work. I think it's smart to involve the whole family; maybe turn it into a game for younger ones.

Don't forget about power backups. With our occasional outages, having battery operated radios or portable chargers is key. TEMA's site has a section on building emergency kits, which pairs well with this.

Why This Matters Now

In a place like Sumner County, where we enjoy beautiful lakes and rolling hills, weather can change fast. Tune It Tuesday isn't just another date on the calendar; it's a call to action. By tuning in, we're building a more resilient community.

Last winter's ice storms showed how vital communication is. Families who had alerts set up could prepare better, avoiding travel during the worst of it. Events like this help prevent panic and promote safety.

TEMA reports that participation in similar initiatives has led to quicker response times in emergencies. For us, that could mean the difference in evacuating safely from areas like Drakes Creek or the Cumberland River zones.

Looking Ahead

As September unfolds, consider marking your calendar for Tune It Tuesday. It's a small step that could have big impacts. Sumner County EMA encourages sharing your prep stories on social media with #TuneItTuesdayTN to inspire others.

If you're new to the area, like some folks who've moved to Gallatin recently, this is a perfect way to get familiar with local resources. Head over to the TEMA website for more details, or stop by one of the mentioned locations.

In the end, preparedness is about peace of mind. Let's make sure Sumner County stays safe and informed.