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Officials Offers Tips for Storm Readiness

  • 08 July 2022

With hurricane season lasting through Nov. 30, emergency officials remind everyone that readiness is vital. Taking precautions and adhering to safety advisories can increase survival chances, save lives and hasten recovery efforts.

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 team members 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, 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 guidance on COVID and how it may affect planning.

To learn how to make your plan, visit ready.gov/make-a-plan. College officials note that these and numerous other measures can mitigate damage and have a positive impact on recovery efforts.

Useful information from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management is available HERE.

Emergency preparedness can be an enormous task for those who may not have the means. Information and referrals to many human services organizations that provide various aid are available by dialing 2-1-1 or going online at www.211virginia.org.

Severe weather can occur anytime. Early preparation and understanding your risks are key to being hurricane-ready, officials advise. In the event of severe weather watches or warnings, watch for on-campus email advisories and other communications throughout hurricane season.

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