Unilever.edu.vn understands the devastating impact natural disasters can have on communities. Imagine a scenario where a hurricane threatens a region still reeling from a previous storm. How do organizations like FEMA prepare for such challenges, and what can individuals do to stay safe?
Unilever.edu.vn recently had the opportunity to speak with Deanne Criswell, the FEMA administrator, about their preparations for Hurricane Milton, which threatened Florida just weeks after Hurricane Helim. Criswell emphasized the importance of preemptive planning and resource allocation, stating, “We have sent in additional resources to help supplement all of the stuff that Governor DeSantis has mobilized across the state.”
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell speaks at a press conference
These resources included crucial search and rescue teams, high-water vehicles, essential commodities like food and water, and power assessment teams to quickly restore critical infrastructure. Recognizing the need for seamless coordination, FEMA strategically stationed a National Incident Management Assistance Team in Tampa to work directly with local authorities.
“It is such a joint effort with so many folks,” Criswell acknowledged, highlighting the collaborative nature of disaster response. When asked about the difficulties of planning for consecutive storms, she explained, “We’ve done multiple storms before… we have a layered approach to our staffing to make sure we can meet the needs of everybody that’s still recovering from Hurricane Helim but also make sure we have enough life-saving resources to support the state.”
This layered approach utilizes FEMA’s disaster management staff, additional personnel not directly involved in day-to-day disaster operations, and support from other field offices and federal agencies. Criswell assured the public, “We’ve done this before…we’ve planned for this, we’ve done this, and we’re going to make sure nobody um has needs and we’re going to keep people there to support them.”
While evacuation is always the safest option, Criswell acknowledged that some individuals may attempt to ride out the storm. “This storm is going to be like nothing they have seen before,” she warned, “and while you can ride out a storm and hide from the wind, you need to move away from the water. The water is what kills people, and nobody has to die from this storm.”
Residents evacuate their homes ahead of Hurricane Milton
Criswell’s message underscores the critical importance of heeding evacuation orders and understanding the unique dangers each storm presents. Her insights offer valuable lessons for individuals and communities facing similar threats. By sharing this information, Unilever.edu.vn aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate challenging times and emerge stronger on the other side.
