Hurricane Response Teams
What happens once a hurricane makes landfall and then slowly moves on? The various hurricane response teams spring into action. Like a well-oiled machine, these teams know their purpose and carry out their missions. Whether the responders are focused on combating or preventing looting, restoring power and water service, assisting displaced residents, cleaning up, or rebuilding, each team has a well-thought out plan.
In fact, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services details the National Response Plan in the “Hurricane Playbook.” This plan, which supports life saving and life sustaining operations, medical and public health infrastructure, and response and recovery operations, consists of several phases. For example, long before the hurricane hits, first responders are gearing up and preparing during the “pre-incident” phase. Soon after, the “incident response” phase begins where assets are activated and deployed, usually following a declaration of emergency. Finally, the “post-incident” phase and recovery begins.
In the case of a hurricane, emergencies are often declared before the storm actually makes landfall. This allows for the deployment of federal agencies. At the local level, emergency crews are standing by. As soon as the winds die down and it’s safe, emergency responders roll into position and the aftermath begins. . .
So, who are these responders? Typical first responders include law enforcement and emergency medical personnel. Occasionally, branches of the military are mobilized for additional support. Police officers are primarily concerned with keeping the peace while medical personnel help those injured during the storm. Meanwhile, work begins on restoring various infrastructures including medical facilities, power plants, electrical lines, water treatment facilities, sewer lines, natural gas, telephone service, and so on.
While crews are working on restoring the electricity and water, relief agencies arrive, loaded with emergency assistance such as potable water, food, clothing, and temporary shelter. Huge emergency aid stations are set up where evacuees go for assistance. In addition to Red Cross volunteers, government representatives and insurance adjusters begin arriving to further help residents begin the recovery process.
Meanwhile, another set of hurricane responders get to work. These work crews include tree removal and water damage companies who are responsible for clearing the roadways and cleaning up the mess.
Because each of these teams is well prepared, the recovery efforts are mobilized quickly. Shortly after the hurricane has blown through, major roadways are cleared, infrastructures restored, and residents allowed back into portions of their communities. The work continues with crews working around the clock to bring back a sense of normalcy as soon as possible. Water levels recede, fallen trees are removed, power and water are restored, and residents return to their soggy homes.
From there, the individuals begin their own response: drying out their homes, clearing debris, contacting insurance companies, calling contractors, and making repairs. Those with significant damage are often displaced for several weeks, if not longer, as their properties dry out.
This scenario is played out several times per year in the United States. Because Atlantic and Gulf Coast states regularly bear the brunt of tropical storms and hurricanes, many companies specializing in hurricane recovery are based nearby for a prompt response. Remember, hurricanes don’t arrive without warning and teams of professionals are well prepared for each phase.
Dryout® Inc.
1415 Colonial Blvd.
Fort Myers, Fl. 33907
Mr. Mark Decherd
http://www.dryout.net
239-437-7100
Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water and fire damage repair services by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.
About the Author:
Mark Decherd’s Dryout Inc. was incorporated in 1997 with a mission to serve waterlogged customers in south Florida. We specialize in water damage, mold remediation, and flood work. As we worked to dry out Florida residences and businesses, we soon found that our efforts alone were not enough. As a result, we developed a nationwide network of affiliates. Now, customers can get service anywhere in the country!
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Hurricane Response Teams