Role of the Disaster Preparedness Coordinator:
- Identify emergency contacts and establish a chain of communication.
- Designate roles for staff and volunteers
- Join the ARDF monthly training Zoom for resources and updates
- When disasters are imminent, stay informed by monitoring local weather alerts and emergency broadcasts
- Stay in contact with the rector or vicar and give updates as needed
Protecting your physical property:
Prior to a storm
- Have your Junior Warden serve in this role or recruit a leader or a team of leaders to oversee property concerns
- Inspect and reinforce windows, doors, and roofing.
- Know where your water, gas and electrical shut-off valves are.
- If your buildings are flood prone, recruit a team to procure sandbags and elevate valuables.
- Devise a plan to safeguard important documents and equipment.
- Ensure backup power sources (generators, batteries) are available and functional.
- Prepare an inventory of your parish facilities and their contents to be used in the event of an insurance claim.
- As a first step take a preliminary video of your parish buildings and their contents.
- Create a written inventory of your facilities and their contents. Download sample inventory.
Following a storm
- If your buildings and or contents have been damaged, once the building is safe to enter, document damage with photographs and a written report.
- Contact our Diocesan Disaster Preparedness Coordinator, Stephen Haynsworth at (843) 870-6860. The Diocese and ARDF can support your church with supplies and manpower.
Pre-hurricane prep for your church body.
- Have your Pastoral Care Committee Chair or assigned clergy recruit a leader or team of leaders to organize care for your parishioners should a disaster strike. The coordinator, in times of emergency, should:
- Identify vulnerable individuals within your church community who may need help in case of an emergency.
- Communicate with your parishioners via email or text letting them know who to contact should they need help in evacuating or (post-hurricane) should their property be damaged
- Urge parishioners to stay informed and stock of emergency supplies. (water, non-perishable food, first aid kits, flashlights, and blankets, including items for infants, elderly members, and those with medical needs.)
Pre-Hurricane Outreach
- If your parish is a suitable structure, is located on high ground, and is not under an evacuation order, consider offering it as a temporary emergency shelter.