CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston. Year round, the Charleston weather makes this area one of the most desirable parts of the country to live, work and play. However, its coastal location can also offer some of the worst weather possible. As many of you know, from the beginning of June through the end of November is hurricane season. This is a time when Charleston and many other coastal areas are vulnerable to one of the most extreme weather phenomenon our planet has to offer -- the hurricane. In September of 1989 Hurricane Hugo made landfall just north of Charleston and caused tremendous damage and killed 20 people in the state. My hope is that such storms never touch land, but that is unlikely. So, we have to do our best to prepare to weather the next major storm.
Two very important things we can do to protect our families and ourselves is to have a family disaster plan and a hurricane evacuation kit. A family disaster plan will ensure that everyone knows the hazards associated with a hurricane such as strong winds, strong rain, storm surge and flooding. When planning, identify the safest room in your home, map out your escape route and designate a meeting place in an area away from your home where you can reassemble in the event you get separated. Select an out-of-state relative or friend who can serve as a contact point for messages if you lose touch with family members and ensure everyone knows the phone number. Also, don't forget to include your pets in your plan.
Another essential part of preparing for a hurricane is an evacuation kit. This kit should include things such as bottled water, non-perishable foods, blankets, pillows, rain gear, sturdy shoes, toiletries and medication. Also, a battery-operated weather radio, flashlight and spare batteries are important to have around. Your kit should have enough supplies to last three to seven days. At the first indication of an incoming storm begin taking actions that are handy even if the storm doesn't come, like going to the bank so you have cash on hand, filling up your vehicle with gas and keeping your cell phone charged. Remember, banks and ATMs may not be available after a storm. Also, keep copies of important documents and papers handy in a waterproof container. Both the kit and the family disaster plan are smart precautions that will go a long way to ensure your safety and that of your family.
Our Yard of the Month winner is Tech. Sgt. and Mrs. Scott Wilcox of the 1st Combat Camera Squadron. It was immediately apparent that they take pride in their home. Their yard was picture quality and deserving of the award.
Every month our first sergeants take time to recognize a group of Airman who display a great deal of pride in their work. These are the Diamond Sharp winners selected for demonstrated excellence observed while they are unaware they're being considered for the award. The June winners are Senior Airman Mary Mayo, 437th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron; Airman 1st Class Joshua Weston, 17th Airlift Squadron; Airman 1st Class Douglas Ryan 437th Civil Engineer Squadron; and Airman 1st Class Ryan Luczkowiak, 437th Maintenance Squadron.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy