The Delphos Herald Inc. - Are you prepared for a disaster?

The Delphos Herald Inc. - Are you prepared for a disaster?

"Are you prepared for a disaster?
by MARY M. GROTHAUSE

DELPHOS

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, many may wonder what plans are in effect locally in the event of a tornado, blizzard or other emergency, and what should be done to be prepared should that happen.
Local officials would contact Allen County EMA, now under Homeland Security. According to Director Russ Decker, his office would determine if shelters need to be opened and then contact the American Red Cross.
Dennis Ward, director of the American Red Cross in Lima, has designated shelters throughout the county. For Delphos, the local and parochial schools are designated. Shelters to be opened would be determined by the type and location of the disaster and how many people would need shelter. The public would be informed by the news media as to where to go.
The key is being prepared before hand with co-ordination between voluntary organizations, local businesses and government. Then, if need be, further resources can be tapped up to the state and federal level.
Ideally, a shelter manager should have staff in place for registration, determining food and water supplies, preparing meals, shower and toilet areas, sanitation, separate dormitory sleeping areas for families with children and the elderly, determining those with medical, mental or physical needs and security for all who are in the shelter."


73 fer nw,
Bob N5IET

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Code may be taking a back seat for now,
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there in the first place is out front of it all.