by Arlene Ingram, US Coast Guard Auxiliary
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n our Coastal Georgia community, any heavy rain can cause local flooding, but storm surge – particularly from even an offshore hurricane – is a major concern, especially so on the barrier islands. Long before a weather event comes our way, families should be making a well thought out and comprehensive plan on how to react. From making an emergency plan, securing your home and belongings, evacuating the family to returning and repairing any possible damage, when coastal folks find it necessary to weather a coastal storm, preparation is absolutely critical! That is why the inaugural fun-filled Golden Isles Prep Rally is coming to the Brunswick waterfront. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on May 21, every first responder agency in Glynn County, the U.S. Coast Guard, GA National Guard and many more local participants are coming together at Mary Ross Waterfront Park to answer your questions, alleviate your fears, and demonstrate for you and your family exactly what to do, where and when to evacu-
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ate, and what to pack for you and even for your family pets! There have been many needed evacuation plan changes since the Floyd nightmare in 1999. This energizing public outreach is long overdue to illustrate the individual’s role for self-reliance and explain Emergency Management’s direction through a fun and exciting approach. Hurricane season begins on June 1st so the Prep Rally, geared for our community in Coastal Georgia, is right on time! You may already know that you need to pack a bag with your medications, insurance information, first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, food and other essentials, but did you also know it’s prudent to prepare for 10 days worth of drinking water per person? It’s also a good idea to fill your bathtub with tap water before you leave to have clean-up water when you return. The Red Cross and Girl Scouts will have bug-out bags for kids to individualize on site and
the Prep Rally is the perfect and uniquely fun venue where you can learn just what to put in them. From dry stashing all of your important documents to putting essential files, documents, and photos on a thumb drive you can carry with you, you’ll get useful tips on how to best keep your information safe and available. The Glynn County Health Dept will also have a starter kit for you at the Prep Rally. Our flood planners are able to show on the big maps how your property may be impacted and how a storm surge can affect your house at different stages. We have a presentation or two that will open your eyes on wind and
