Hurricane season is upon us, and with experts predicting 2016 to be the most active in years, EHCMA members are working hard to ensure everyone is prepared and safe.

Our members keep strong risk management policies and procedures in place year-round, and employ state-of-the-art technologies to operate safely, but special precautions are put into place during this season. Our members prepare detailed plans and put them in place in advance, preparing facilities and training employees as we gear up for the season ahead.

Being ready for hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, is truly a team effort between industry and local agencies, and our members work closely with city councils, local authorities and emergency management teams. EHCMA members are also active participants in Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs), which not only aid in sharing information but also in educating the community on how to prepare themselves and their neighbors.

The following practices ensure EHCMA member companies are prepared to secure facilities and protect employees and the community if a hurricane threatens our region:

• Use of advanced weather-forecasting tools to continuously monitor potential storm activity, closely following the progress of storms so our members can respond accordingly.
• Hurricane response plans are initiated depending on the trajectory and timing of an expected landfall. These involve everything from inspections and preparations to shutdowns and evacuations of any facilities in the path of the storm.
• Facilities communicate with employees ensure their safety if they have to evacuate.
• Throughout each step, our members work closely with local authorities on their status and plans during a storm.

EHCMA encourages everyone to stay up-to-date and prepared this hurricane season. Community members can stay informed through the National Hurricane Center, which is updated frequently with active storms and marine forecasts, during hurricane season. Additionally, Ready.gov has tips on preparing your home for a hurricane, what to do during different hours leading up to a hurricane making landfall, and after hurricane plans.