(published in The Review June 2001)

The Disaster Response Ministries would like to remind you of some safety tips
for our Hurricane Season. 

Enter the Season Prepared!
If you live in a coastal area, identify your evacuation route. Get information on emergency planning in your area by contacting your local Emergency Management office.

Advisories and Warnings!
A "hurricane watch" is issued whenever a hurricane becomes a threat to coastal areas.

A "hurricane warning" is issued when hurricane winds, or a combination of dangerously high water and very roughs seas, are expected in a specific coastal area within 24 hours.

Your local Emergency Management Office will keep you informed by using the local media such as t.v. and radio.

Get Ready!

• Keep tuned to a weather radio, local radio or television station for the latest advisories.
• Check battery powered equipment such as radios and flashlights. Buy extra batteries.
• Keep your car fueled should evacuation be necessary. Also, service stations may be    inoperable after the storm.
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, or bottles.
• Obtain extra prescription medications.
• Board up windows or protect them with storm shutters.
• Secure outdoor objects. Harmless items such as garbage cans, porch furniture, and toys can become deadly missiles in hurricane winds.
• Moor your boat securely before the storm arrives, or move it to a safe area early. Do not stay on the boat or you may drown.
• Leave early from low-lying beach areas. Leave mobile home for more substantial shelter.
• Some areas flood long before the storm's arrival. Don't get caught by the hurricane on an open coastal road.
• If local government advises evacuation of your area, DO SO IMMEDIATELY.
• Be alert for tornado watches and warnings. Should your area receive a warning, seek shelter in an interior bathroom or small hall, preferably below ground level.

During the Hurricane!
Remain indoors. Blowing debris can kill. Be wary of the "eye" and the brief lull in winds. On the other side of the eye, the winds will rapidly increase and blow from the opposite direction.

After the Hurricane Has Passed!
§ If you are in a public shelter, remain there until informed that it is safe to leave.

§ Keep tuned to the local radio or t.v. station for advice about emergency medical, food, housing,
      and other forms of assistance.

§ Stay clear of disaster areas. Your presence may interfere with recovery work. Do not use the
      telephone except for rescue, serious injuries, or emergencies.

§ Do not drive unless you must. Roads should be left clear for emergency vehicles. Roads may be
      dangerous from debris or damage.

§ Avoid loose or dangling wires. Report them to your power company or local police. Report
      broken sewer, gas, or water mains.

§ Prevent fires. Don't use candles. Check building for possible collapse before re-entry.

§ If power has been cut off, check refrigerated food for spoilage.

Your Disaster Response Team

The Florida Conference Disaster Response Team is working to help, prepare, and respond. They keep in close contact with local churches, officials, and organizations to unite community efforts and foster close relationships. The United Methodist Church makes every effort to respond to a disaster situation as soon as possible.

Disaster response efforts in the conference continue throughout the year with trainings, awareness, and food and supply collections to the supply depot. If you would like more information on how you can help, contact Rev David Harris. Financial contributions can be made through your local church, designated "Conference Disaster Response #717." We hope you have a safe season.

"In as much as you have done it unto one of the least of these, you have done it unto me." (Mt. 25:40)