ACOM Safety and Security: The Dispatch

June 2021

HURRICANE SEASON: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and ends November 30.  In order to stay safe and ready, it is important to be prepared before the first storm forms, not wait until it is headed inland.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an above-average Atlantic hurricane season but not the historic level of storm activity in 2020.  "Although NOAA scientists don't expect this season to be as busy as last year, it only takes one storm to devastate a community," said Ben Friedman, acting NOAA administrator.

Hurricane preparation plans should include an evacuation plan if you are ordered to leave, a designated safe area on the lowest level within the interior of your home, and an emergency supply kit.  See the list below of recommended supplies for an extended stay at home following a hurricane.  While every household kit may vary in its supplies, all kits should include a portable radio with extra batteries to continue monitoring the weather station and flashlights with extra batteries.

SECURITY SPOTLIGHT

Mr. Johnny Dixon brings 27 years of security and safety experience to his job at ACOM.

A native of Ashford, AL, Dixon enjoys spending time outdoors hunting and fishing.  He also enjoys being a weekend mechanic.

When he is able to get away from ACOM for a little rest and relaxation, he enjoys any area where he has great mountain views.

Thank you Mr. Dixon for your service!

ROAD TRIP!!!  BUT BEFORE YOU GO...

It's summer vacation, the weather is finally warm, and the year-long struggle of battling a global pandemic is waning.  The CDC reports as of May 26, more than 289.2 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine has been administered.  Travel is opening across the country.  Below are 20 safe driving tips you should know if you hit the road this summer.

HURRICANES 101

Hurricanes that hit land are measured in terms of categories that relate to wind speed and potential damage.  Even less intense storms can cause damage in areas not prepared in advance.

Before

• Prepare your evacuation plan, including pets, transportation routes, and destinations.
• Consider building a safe room.
• Listen to a NOAA weather radio or check local forecasts and news reports regularly.
• Bring in all outside furniture, decorations, garbage cans, etc.
• Turn off utilities if instructed to do so.
• Turn off propane tanks.
• Avoid using the phone except for serious emergencies.
• Fill the bathtub or buckets with water to use for cleaning and flushing toilets.
• Keep your gas tank at least 3/4 full at all times.
• Keep your emergency supply kit in an easily accessible location.
• Evacuate when you are instructed to do so.

During

• If you choose not to evacuate, stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors.  Notify out-of-area contacts of your decision.
• Close all interior doors and secure and brace exterior doors.  Keep curtains and blinds closed.
• Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.  Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.
• Don't be fooled by a lull in the storm -- it could be the eye of the storm and winds could resume.

After

• Be aware of flooding and tornadoes.
• Stay out of flood waters if possible.
• Stay away from downed power lines.
• If you evacuated, do not return to your home until local authorities say it is safe.