Shaw prepares for hurricane season

Published March 24, 2014
By Airman 1st Class Michael A. Cossaboom
20 Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Team Shaw is preparing for hurricane season which begins June 1 and lasts approximately six months.

The 20th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management team is educating Airmen by covering hurricane evacuation procedueres during right start briefs at the Carolina Skies Club and Conference Center and running the 20th CES emergency management Facebook page, keeping people informed of all local emergencies.

With two hurricanes hitting the eastern seaboard in 2013, residents always have to be ready.

"Preparation is key to making it through any hurricane season," said Senior Airman Timothy Sanford, 20th CES emergency management specialist. "Know your evacuation route and always have an emergency kit ready."

An emergency kit should contain 72-hours worth of supplies per person, said Sanford. It should also have any important documents, money and pet information to include vaccinations, tag numbers and photo identification.

If a hurricane were to hit Shaw AFB this year, it is reccommended that Airmen and their families listen to news that is being broadcasted via radio, internet, social media or television and follow instructions.

"The worst thing you can do during a hurricane is not pay attention," said Airman 1st Class Cynthia Romero, 20th CES emergency management specialist. "If the radio tells you that you should evacuate, it's a good idea to do so."