Alabama will observer its sixth annual Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday this weekend, giving people the opportunity to stock up on supplies without paying any taxes.
The Alabama Retail Association encourages Alabamians to restock emergency supplies in homes, workplaces and vehicles during this three-day tax holiday. from Feb. 24-26
“This is a great time for individuals to sit down and take a look at what they have and what they need in their homes and cars if severe weather becomes a threat,” said Dothan/Houston County Emergency Management Agency Director Chris Judah. “In so many cases, individuals wait until it’s too late to go and purchase these items. This weekend allows everyone to get a jump start on supplies needed. Take advantage of it.”
Certain emergency preparedness items will be exempt from the state’s four-percent state sales tax. In some cities and counties, local taxes will be waived as well.
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Tax-exempt items include the following items priced $600 or less:
» Flashlights, lanterns
» Battery-powered or hand-crank radios
» First-aid kits
» Cell phone chargers
» Two-way radios
» Manual can openers
» Tarps and plastic sheeting
» Duct tape
» Fire extinguishers
» Tie-downs kits, bungee cords or rope
Some other tax-free items include: coolers, ice packs, plywood, and smoke/fire/carbon monoxide detectors. Portable generators and power cords costing $1,000 or less are also tax free. For a full list of items included in the tax free weekend and a list of cities and counties that are also participating, click here.
“As everyone is restocking on severe weather items, I encourage everyone to also change their smoke detector batteries during this time,” Judah said. “If for some reason you do not have a smoke detector, get one and get it installed. In some instances, the lighting received during severe weather has caused house fires. Also, sit down with your family and as you prepare your severe weather survival kits, also take the time to discuss a safe-plan for your family. If you have to go to a certain room for safety during a storm, make sure every family member knows where to go. Make a plan, learn the place and enforce the plan.”
Many local stores have the shelves stocked and ready for shoppers to take advantage of the Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.
“We have everything from flashlights to chainsaws,” said Lowe’s Store Manager Shane Showalter. “If someone has all the items they need and all they missing is a first-aid kit, we have those as well. We have everything anyone needs to be prepared for severe weather. If, for some reason, we don’t have an item in stock, we will be more than happy to order the item for you. This tax-free holiday is a great way to get a prepared for severe weather. If someone prepares now, they are ready when the time comes.”
The Dothan/Houston County EMA also reminds everyone to think about their elderly family members and pets this weekend.
“This weekend is all about getting prepared,” Judah said. “If you have elderly family members, ask them what items they may need to be prepared for severe weather. Family members have to watch out for one another. If they are unable to drive to the store to purchase flashlights or batteries, pick up some this weekend. Make sure if they let you know they need help getting prepared, help them. When severe weather approaches it is too late to help those who need the help now. One additional item I encourage everyone to have in their home and in their vehicle for severe weather is construction-size trash bags. These large bags are so beneficial. They are big enough to wrap around someone to help keep someone warm. They are also large enough to use to help keep dry during the storm. They are not expensive and they are a huge benefit.
“I also encourage all pet owners to make sure they have pet food on hand. If you are a pet owner, it is also your responsibility to have your pets taken care of during an emergency situation.”
Judah also reminds all county residents to get enrolled in the Code Red Program available through the emergency management agency.
“The Code Red Program is simple and informative,” Judah said. “In just the past few months we have had severe thunderstorms and tornados, and before we know it the hurricane season will be here. I encourage everyone to sign up for the Code Red Program. It’s free and easy and so beneficial. This program allows us to keep everyone up-to-date on the weather in their area. If anyone needs more information on our Code Red Program, call 794-9720.”