OIFR Is Ready if the Storm Hits, Are You?

— Marla Johns —

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue is urging island residents to use the predicted Saturday morning calm before the storm, to prepare for the anticipated large weather disturbance to hit our area Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning. OIFR, together with other County resources and agencies, has been in regular contact and coordination with the Department of Emergency Management to track and plan for the predicted weather event.

At this time, we are still anticipating a strong storm to hit our area. In addition, we recognize that a storm event on the mainland may also affect our power, telephone and communications. To help be prepared, you are encouraged to have a supply of non perishable foods and bottled water on hand. You are also encouraged to use this time to check with neighbors near you and see how you might work together to help one another. If you rely on medial equipment which requires power, please check your battery back up systems to ensure they are fully charged and functioning properly. As a reminder, if you, or a loved one, relies on a personal emergency alert system, it will likely not work properly if there is a phone or communication line failure. You are urged to develop an alternate plan.

During the predicted storm event, OIFR is urging residents to follow the recommendations laid out by the Department of Emergency Management.

• Islanders should STAY HOME SATURDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH SUNDAY; and stay off of roads until winds are done and initial clean up has happened.
• Secondly, be careful with candles, generators, propane heaters and stoves, and always follow all manufacturer directions for use.
• Finally, we need your help to check on one another when it is safe to do so, especially those who may be more vulnerable. We urge residents in need to utilize shelter services available Saturday night at the Community Church and Sunday at Odd Fellows.

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue is fully staffed and volunteers are standing by to respond if called upon. We are also prepared with a more large scale mobilization of resources if the need arises.

As was said in the afternoon briefing, “we are planning for the worst and hoping for the best.”