ISSUE: Focus on hurricanes

OUR VIEW: Survey illustrates misconceptions about readiness

Gov. Mark Sanford this past week joined state and local officials in three counties in discussing the state’s emergency plans as hurricane season begins. Focusing on coastal counties such as Beaufort, Charleston and Horry, the officials are doing their utmost to overcome what may be some complacence on the part of citizens about the hurricane risk.

While not many coastal residents along the Southeastern United States will forget the experience of living through a hurricane, as the 2008 season approaches many may be experiencing a case of amnesia about the most basic preparedness strategies, according to a new survey from Allstate.

While 24-44 percent of survey respondents from five areas in the Southeast declared they are very prepared, and 34-47 percent felt they are fairly prepared for a hurricane right now, they may be less prepared than they realize.

Remarkably, the survey showed that between 61 and 84 percent of people polled in those areas have established an evacuation plan (New Orleans being the highest of the five areas at 84 percent). These plans are crucial and should be discussed with relatives and neighbors in advance of a hurricane. Not only were some area respondents unsure of what to do once a hurricane arrives, many didn’t have a preparedness plan in place before the storm hits.

Between 60-75 percent named water as one of the two most essential items to have on hand in case of a hurricane. The other top selection was food, which was picked by 59-71 percent of respondents. However, other important items were mentioned by much smaller numbers. For example, a flashlight and batteries were mentioned by slightly more than one-third, and about one-third mentioned a radio. Having cash and a full tank of gas were mentioned by less than one in five.

Experts advise that families can prepare themselves by creating a well-stocked first-aid kit as well as a disaster-supply kit and keeping them in easy-to-access places. The disaster-supply kit should contain a three-day supply of water and ready-to-eat, non-perishable foods as well as utensils, personal hygiene items, extra clothes, blankets and shoes. Travelers checks and extra cash should also be stored in a secure place.

“Experts predict above-average hurricane activity this year, with several storms expected to reach Category 3 or higher,” said Allstate spokesman John Heid. “Those predictions, coupled with the startling statistics we’ve uncovered through this survey, make it clear to us that we need to continue to raise awareness about hurricane preparedness ...Preparation is a family’s best defense against a natural disaster, and families can follow simple steps to prepare themselves for the worst-case scenario.”

They are steps that can save lives in inland counties such as those in The T&D Region as well as along the coast. As history shows, we are not immune from hurricanes and natural disasters.

You must be logged in to comment.