Emergency Management launches 2010 Hurricane Preparedness

Washington and Holmes County have taken measures to prepare for this year’s hurricane season.

“The Washington County Emergency Management staff would like to remind citizens we are approaching June 1st which marks the beginning of the 2010 Hurricane Season,” said Director of Washington County Emergency Management Roger Hagan. “We’re all aware of the devastation that can be experienced when a storm impacts an area.”

Holmes County held a hurricane preparedness meeting at their new EOC building on May 12, discussing the upcoming hurricane season with National Weather Service meteorologist Kelly Godsey.

“What we can expect is high activity this year because there was very little activity last year,” said Godsey. “Last year was slow so prepare yourself for a rough season ahead.”

He said because the El Nino affect is weakening this will increase activity in the Atlantic.

The season will officially begin in July, however the highest activity will occur in August, September and October with the season fading out in November.

He said that in “realizing the importance of preparation, the Washington County Emergency Management staff has compiled a list of items for a personal Emergency Supply Kit should power be interrupted to your area.”

The list is divided into five shopping trips for “ease and convenience.”

“Remember, these are suggested items and you should make adjustments according to your family’s personal needs,” said Hagan. “The needs of those with special diets and infants should be considered as well and if there is an infant in the home be sure to have extra diapers, wipes, baby food, formula, etc.”

Week 1: hand operated can opener, heavy duty garbage bags (2-3), toilet tissue (4 rolls), paper towels (2-3), flash light with batteries, extra radio batteries, liquid hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent.

Week 2: 1 gallon of water per family member, canned meat (at least 3), canned vegetables (at least 3), canned fruit (at least 3), large can of juice, box of quick energy snacks.

Week 3: 1 gallon of water per family member, package of paper plates, unscented liquid bleach, large storage bags (2), liquid dish soap, disposable utensils, package of plastic cups.

Week 4: 1 Gallon of water per family member, large canned soup (at least 3), box of crackers, peanut butter, jelly or jam, box of quick energy snacks, sandwich bread (freeze).

Week 5: Aspirin or acetaminophen, adhesive bandages, personal products, rubbing alcohol, latex gloves (at least 2 pair), hydrogen peroxide, antiseptic, anti-diarrhea medicine, rolls of gauze or bandages and first aid tape.