Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Chatham County Hosts Hurricane Preparedness Event

Residents gather at the Chatham County Hurricane Preparedness Event to learn vital safety measures and gather resources.

News Summary

The Chatham County Health Department is organizing an Emergency and Hurricane Preparedness Event on May 30th to assist vulnerable residents in preparing for hurricane threats. The free event includes participation from various local organizations, emphasizing the importance of registration for the Hurricane Registry for individuals with medical needs. Attendees will learn about emergency kit preparation and have opportunities to win door prizes while gathering essential resources for community safety during hurricane season.

Savannah, Georgia – The Chatham County Health Department is set to host an Emergency and Hurricane Preparedness Event designed to help vulnerable residents prepare for potential hurricane threats. The event will take place on Friday, May 30th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the green space located behind the health department building at 1395 Eisenhower Drive.

This event is free and open to the public, providing a valuable opportunity for community members to learn about important resources and strategies for staying safe during hurricanes. Participants will include a range of local organizations such as the Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), Healthy Savannah, GROW Initiative GA, the American Red Cross, and Safe Kids Savannah. The collaboration indicates a comprehensive approach to community safety and preparedness.

One of the key aspects of the event will be the emphasis on the Coastal Health District’s Hurricane Registry. Registration is crucial for individuals with medical conditions or functional challenges that could complicate their evacuation during emergencies. Currently, only slightly over 200 people are registered on the Hurricane Registry in Chatham County, highlighting the need for increased awareness and participation. By signing up, individuals can ensure they have access to necessary evacuation assistance when the situation demands it.

The event will also feature demonstrations on creating emergency kits, which are essential for families during a hurricane, particularly when services like water and power may be disrupted, and flooding occurs. Participants are encouraged to prepare their kits with essential items such as non-perishable food, batteries, and a radio for receiving news alerts.

Dr. Chris Rustin, the Director of the Chatham County Health Department, has emphasized the critical importance of preparedness in safeguarding vulnerable residents during hurricane season. The gathering will offer not just resources and connections, but also foster a culture of readiness among both long-time Savannah residents and newcomers.

In addition to learning about local resources and evacuation plans, attendees will have a chance to win door prizes, available to the first 100 arrivals, along with various raffle prizes. There will be informational booths and resource directories to assist individuals in making comprehensive emergency plans.

For those who wish to be included in the Hurricane Registry and receive evacuation help, pre-registration is a must. This process is designed to streamline assistance efforts in the event of an emergency, ensuring the safety and shelter of those who need it most.

This preparedness event highlights a proactive approach to disaster management in Chatham County. With hurricane season approaching, the collaboration between the health department and local organizations aims to raise awareness and equip residents with knowledge and tools to respond effectively to emergencies.

As the community prepares for the upcoming hurricane season, events like this are vital in ensuring that residents are knowledgeable about the resources available to them. The Chatham County Health Department’s Hurricane Preparedness Event promises to be an informative, efficient, and engaging opportunity for all who attend.