Safety Officials Offer Storm Readiness Tips

With hurricane season lasting through Nov. 30, Thomas Nelson emergency officials remind everyone that readiness is imperative. Taking precautions and adhering to safety advisories may increase survival chances and save lives.

While personal and family safety are paramount, workspace preservation will also be necessary. A few steps can be taken year-round to reduce impact from severe weather, including:

• Plan in advance how to protect files, records and, valuable equipment,
• Obtain and store needed supplies such as plastic sheeting to cover equipment and files,
• Discuss preparatory actions with team members and assign responsibilities, and
• Update and distribute emergency and contact information to personnel and Human Resources.

A few tips for around the home:

• Create a family plan that includes an emergency kit and supplies that can sustain self-sufficiency for three to seven days or more including food, water, blankets, fuel, medicines, medical supplies, pet supplies, cash, and etc.;
• Prepare your home by storing outdoor items that may become projectiles in heavy winds;
• Adhere to all recommendations for evacuation or shelter-in-place advisories from local officials;
• Evacuate as advised, if you reside in a mobile home or are camping in an RV;
• Know your evacuation route; also with regard to flooding, Know Your Zone (Designated A through D, the zones aim to give residents clear and specific evacuation or shelter-in-place information); and
• Discuss the latest CDC guidance on COVID-19 and how it may affect planning.

College safety officials note that these and numerous other measures can mitigate damage and hasten recovery. See useful information from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management by clicking HERE.

Watch for email advisories and other communications throughout hurricane season in the event of severe weather watches or warnings.