Tropical Storm Isaac’s approach and predicted growth has prompted the State
of Louisiana and Southern University officials to release of an influx of emergency preparation information.
In a university e-mail sent from the Chancellor’s office Monday, the campus
will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday for the student’s safety.
“The University encourages everyone to take all safety precautions available
leaving and entering campus,” Southern officials said via e-mail.
While officials released statements of precaution, the Governor’s Office
of Homeland Security and Emergency preparedness, also known as GOHSEP created a list of how to prepare for emergency situation.
“During an emergency, crucial state public information may be released
through GOHSEP with the help of other state agencies that may be involved in
the responses actions,” said GOHSEP in a statement released on their website as
emergency public information.
Officials from GOSHEP recommend people coordinate their departure with
people who are traveling along with them, secure their home and pack a disaster supplies kit in their vehicle.
Officials also recommend double checking evacuation routes and leaving
as soon as possible.
Although an overview of procedures for preparedness was listed, a more
detailed list of tips for home security was listed by GOHSEP.
“Turning off gas, water, electricity, boarding up windows, drawing drapes
across windows, making arrangements for animals, and locking all windows and
doors,” GOHSEP’s website cited as ways for people to properly secure their homes.
Securing of a citizen’s home is important, but the evacuation tips are just as helpful.
“Check on friends and neighbors who may have special needs, keep your vehicle
in good repair with a full tank of fuel, and if possible take a CB radio or cell phone
with you,” GOHSEP website referred to as tips of evacuation.
In preparing a disaster kit, and keeping a point/person of contact whom
family and friends can call to learn your evacuation plans.
Evacuation tips are important, however a faculty member believes knowledge of the storm’s direction can help in evacuating to the correct area out of the storm’s path.
“The north east quadron of the storm is the business end,” said Christopher Cottrell, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography and Political Science at SUBR.
In the case of Isaac, he would either evacuate to San Antonio or Tallahassee to avoid the storm’s damage area.
An evacuation destination is as important as having the correct supplies in a disaster kit.
“A can opener, 3-day supply of nonperishable food, bedding or sleeping
bags, water, toiletries, battery-operated radio, flashlights, and extra batteries,”
GOHSEP’s website cited as a few common supplies needed for a disaster kit.
Southern Officials recommend most to evacuate as the first procedure, but if
students choose not to there are steps for them to follow.
Edward Pratt, Assistant to the Chancellor for Media Relations said, “Students should not venture out into weather for their own safety.” Staff will be available to provide services such as food, and utilities on campus.
