Preparing for Hurricane Season Published May 29, 2008 By Senior Airman Stephenie Wade 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs MACDILL AFB, Fla -- The month of June begins tomorrow and that also signifies the beginning of hurricane season. Because MacDill is in a flood zone. Team MacDill members should make plans and take precaution prior to hurricane season. The start of hurricane season isn't quite the non-event it was before Charley, Ivan, Frances and Jeanne paid a visit in 2004. "While it has been a few years the 2004 hurricane season proved that you don't know where a hurricane is going until after it has been there," said Larry Clark 6th Civil Engineer Squadron, installation emergency manager. "Being prepared and having a plan is the most effective thing you can do to mitigate the effects of a hurricane" stated Mr. Clark. "Your family disaster plan should cover escape or evacuation routes, transportation, insure vital documents, special needs items, pet care, and safety information. Just remember you run from the water and hide from the wind," he said. Depending on where individuals live, they may be required to evacuate when a hurricane threatens the area. "Only the commander has the authority to initiate an evacuation of installation personnel. However if your county is being evacuated, then most likely you should expect to be evacuated too," said Mr. Clark. The base has the concept of safe house and safe haven for hurricane evacuations. "safe house" is used to describe family evacuation locations within the Tampa Bay area for evacuation from a Category I -III Hurricane," said Mr. Clarke. Team MacDill members who must evacuate because they live in a flood zone or mobile home are matched with other Team MacDill members who volunteered to host evacuees in their home. Evacuees become the guests of the host family and must remember to bring their own emergency supplies, to include food, clothing, bedding, medicines and special needs. "If you are a potential "evacuee," you should know where your safe house is and discuss such subjects with your hosts such as what to bring and whether pets are welcome," he said. According to the emergency management office, in the case of a Category IV or V hurricane, evacuation of the entire Tampa Bay area may be required. When this evacuation is declared, personnel may have to relocate well outside of the area, possibly even outside the state of Florida. This location will be your "safe haven." Individuals are responsible for planning this type of evacuation. Commanders at all levels have an inherent responsibility to protect the personnel under their command. In the event of a hurricane, the Adopt-A-Family Program is a key aspect of this protection. Each unit manages its own program. Airman will be required to coordinate evacuation plans with the unit emergency management representative. Prior to a Hurricane developing, there are several things that should be accomplished: Develop a family disaster plan (important for single members too). A disaster plan should cover escape or evacuation routes, means of transportation, insurance and vital records, rally points, special needs listings, arrangements for animals, and safety information. If single, individuals need to ensure someone else is aware of their disaster plan. Next, a family should always have a disaster supply kit put together in case of evacuation. Some suggestions for the kit are water, food, blankets, batteries, radio, flashlights, toiletries and money. When a hurricane evacuation seems imminent, home preparation becomes a priority. In order to help ensure personal property will weather the storm, follow these guidelines: During a watch: - Secure all out door objects (may bring indoors, except gas canisters/grills) - Unplug electrical equipment (except freezers and refrigerators as long as flooding is not expected) - Turn freezers and refrigerators to coldest setting - avoid opening - Withdraw cash from ATMs (which may not be in working order for weeks after the storm) - Ensure vehicles are fueled - Board windows (off base only), do not tape. For those on base, pull curtains closed and safety pin together if needed. Do not open windows, it will not relieve pressure - Fill bathtubs, sinks, and buckets with water During a warning: - Listen to a battery operated radio or TV if owned - Follow instructions issued by local authority - If in a mobile home, evacuate immediately - If in a surge zone, move furniture higher - Turn off the main water valve In the thick of it: - Remain indoors, in the center of the home, in a closet, bathroom, or hall without windows. - Stay away from flood waters. If a road is flooded, turn around and go another way. If caught on a flooded road in rising waters, get out of the car and climb to higher ground. After the storm: - Keep listening to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for instructions. - Return home only when local officials tell you it is safe to do so. - Inspect the home for damage In order to inform the base about the approaching hurricane season the emergency management office on MacDill has set up a "Hurricane Awareness" night on June 18 at the base theater followed by a free viewing of the movie "Speed Racer".