Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD ................................................................................................................................................. 3
DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................................... 3
USEFUL LINKS ............................................................................................................................................ 3
I.
BASIC PLAN ................................................................................................................................... 4
A)
Introduction....................................................................................................................................... 4
B)
Purpose ............................................................................................................................................ 4
C)
Scope ............................................................................................................................................... 4
D)
Coordination of Resources ............................................................................................................... 5
II.
ACTION PHASES ............................................................................................................................ 5
A)
Preparedness Phase – Normal Operating Conditions (former OPCON 5) ...................................... 5
B)
Monitoring Phase – Potential Threat Sighted (former OPCON 4) ................................................... 5
C)
Watch & Warning Phase – Take Action to Save Life & Property (former OPCONS 2 & 3)............. 5
D)
Evacuation Phase – Initiate Evacuation of County (former OPCONS 1 & 2) .................................. 5
E)
Re-Entry Phase – Begin Re-admittance Process ............................................................................ 6
III.
COMMUNICATIONS AND WARNING ............................................................................................ 6
A)
Responsibility ................................................................................................................................... 6
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness .................................................................................................................. 6
C)
Response/Recovery ......................................................................................................................... 7
V.
PUBLIC INFORMATION ................................................................................................................. 8
A)
Responsibility ................................................................................................................................... 8
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness .................................................................................................................. 8
C)
Response/Recovery ......................................................................................................................... 9
IV.
EVACUATION ............................................................................................................................... 10
A)
Responsibility ................................................................................................................................. 10
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness ................................................................................................................ 10
C)
Response/Recovery ....................................................................................................................... 10
VI.
MASS CARE AND SHELTER SERVICES .................................................................................... 12
A)
Responsibility ................................................................................................................................. 12
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness ................................................................................................................ 12
C)
Response/Recovery ....................................................................................................................... 12
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
VII.
RE-ENTRY PHASES ..................................................................................................................... 12
A)
Phase I – State and Local Authorized Re-Entry ............................................................................ 12
B)
Phase II – Public Re-Entry ............................................................................................................. 13
C)
Phase III – Normal Operations ....................................................................................................... 13
D)
Re-Entry Requirements .................................................................................................................. 13
VIII.
CLEAN-UP AND RECOVERY ...................................................................................................... 13
A)
Responsibility ................................................................................................................................. 13
B)
Damage Assessment ..................................................................................................................... 14
C)
Clean-Up ........................................................................................................................................ 14
Appendix A: Hurricane Action Phase Charts ........................................................................................ 16
Appendix B: Hurricane Intensity Scale .................................................................................................. 17
Appendix C: Effingham County Shelters .............................................................................................. 43
Appendix D: Primary Evacuation Routes and Shelters (Atlantic
Coast)……………………………….434
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
FOREWORD
The Effingham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) is committed to reducing the
vulnerability of our county to hurricanes. This Hurricane Preparedness & Response Standard
Operating Procedure (SOP) has been developed to ensure a well-coordinated and effective
response to hurricane strikes that may require the use of evacuation and re-entry procedures. It
has been updated with the help of the 2003 Georgia Hurricane Planning Guide.
A printed copy of this SOP will be distributed to all departments and agencies with primary
response roles. To obtain additional copies or to submit comments or corrections, please
contact the CEMA office.
DEFINITIONS
Hurricane (also known as typhoon or tropical cyclone): A tropical storm with wind speeds of at
least 74 mph (64 knots). Such systems can be thousands of square kilometers in size and
usually have a lifespan of several days. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to
November 30, but the majority of storms occur in August, September and October.
Hurricane Watch: This is issued for a specified coastal area for which a hurricane or a
hurricane-related hazard is a possible threat within 36 hours.
Hurricane Warning: This is issued when a hurricane with sustained winds of 74 mph or higher
is expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less. Actions to protect life and
property should be rushed to completion. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when
dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high
waves continue, even though the winds may have subsided below hurricane intensity.
Saffir-Simpson Scale: A rating scale of 1-5 based on a hurricane's intensity. This scale is used
to give an estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast
from a hurricane landfall.
Storm Surge: A dome of water that is built up by a hurricane’s winds and pushed onto shore
just before the eye of a hurricane. It can be as wide as 50 miles and as high as 25 feet.
USEFUL LINKS
American Red Cross
http://www.redcross.net
Effingham County
http://www.effinghamcounty.org
Federal Emergency Management Agency
http://www.fema.gov
Georgia Emergency Management Agency
http://www.gema.state.ga.us
National Hurricane Center
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov
National Weather Service
http://www.nws.noaa.gov
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
I.
BASIC PLAN
A)
Introduction
Hurricanes pose a specific threat to Effingham County. As a secondary coastal county,
we are at lesser risk than inland counties for bearing the impact of Atlantic tropical
storms and hurricanes, especially the collateral effects of high winds, storm surge and
major flooding.
Effingham County enjoys continued growth in population and tourism; however, this
growth also poses a challenge for emergency response agencies. Public awareness
efforts are continually on-going to educate and motivate people to prepare for the threat
of hurricanes.
The Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP addresses the unique
actions required to deal with a hurricane threat or actual incident. Evacuation and
sheltering of the County’s population requires a large degree of coordination between
local, state and federal agencies prior to the storm’s landfall. Predicting the exact path
and strength of a hurricane is difficult; therefore, actions may be taken for an event but
not a disaster.
B)
Purpose
Specifically, the objectives of this plan are to:
C)

Mitigate the effects of tropical storms through planning and preparedness.

Alert local officials and the general public in a timely, efficient manner.

Protect and save lives.

Coordinate response activities of local officials.

Provide for orderly evacuation of threatened areas.

Prevent or minimize damage to property.

Coordinate activities with coastal county officials and others involved in hurricane
response.

Coordinate the return of evacuees to their homes.

Provide for the rapid recovery of the stricken area.
Scope
This SOP is intended to provide guidelines for preparedness, response, and recovery
activities relative to a hurricane emergency (potential or actual) in County. It is designed
for use by local government departments as well as for public and private agencies that
support the Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) of the Local Emergency Operations
Plan (LEOP).
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
This document, developed under the guidance of the Georgia Emergency Management
Agency (GEMA), supports the Georgia Emergency Operations Plan (GEOP) and the
Georgia Hurricane Planning Guide (GHPG).
D)
Coordination of Resources
City and County governments will utilize all available resources to meet the existing
emergency. The County Commission Chairman and Mayors of the Cities of Rincon,
Springfield and Guyton have the authority to solicit equipment or manpower within the
scope of affected local governmental jurisdictions to meet such emergencies. Written
mutual aid agreements are established throughout the County to ensure the availability
of resources. If local resources are determined to be inadequate, state and/or federal
agency assistance may be requested.
II.
ACTION PHASES
Preparedness and response activities will be framed within five Hurricane Action
Phases. The Preparedness Phase is the beginning of hurricane season (June 1) and
the subsequent phases are based on an increased threat due to the actual landfall of a
storm. The actions of government departments and other agencies are included in
Appendix A of this SOP.
A)
Preparedness Phase – Normal Operating Conditions (former OPCON 5)
The Preparedness phase involves activities carried out in advance of a hurricane.
These activities develop operational capabilities and improve effective response to
tropical events. Severe weather plans are updated and exercised, resource inventories
are maintained (personnel, vehicles, equipment, supplies), and planning activities are
carried out. This phase automatically goes into effect during hurricane season (June 1
through November 30).
B)
Monitoring Phase – Potential Threat Sighted (former OPCON 4)
When a tropical threat has been sighted, local officials take immediate action to increase
readiness. This phase begins 72 to 48 hours ahead of potential landfall. The EMA
advises staff of the situation, monitors the progress of the threat, and assesses
vulnerability and decision times.
Departments/agencies review plans, alert key
personnel, and maintain communication with the EMA.
C)
Watch & Warning Phase – Take Action to Save Life & Property (former OPCONS 2 & 3)
This phase corresponds with the issuance of a hurricane “watch” (and “warning”) by the
National Weather Service, about 48 to 24 hours ahead of potential landfall. The EMA
may activate the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate resources of public
and private organizations. Local and state agencies work together to make decisions
regarding evacuation timing and routing, the positioning of resources, and the release of
emergency instructions to the public.
D)
Evacuation Phase – Initiate Evacuation of County (former OPCONS 1 & 2)
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When the decision has been made by local and state authorities to evacuate, the
Evacuation Phase goes into effect. Warning systems are activated, resources are
mobilized, and the media provides the public with evacuation route and shelter
information. This phase must conclude before the arrival of tropical storm force winds.
E)
Re-Entry Phase – Begin Re-admittance Process
This phase begins immediately following the termination of a regional evacuation. Public
information concerning re-entry will be disseminated immediately. Re-entry will begin in
accordance with the Georgia Re-Entry Protocols.
Table: Hurricane Action Phases
Phase
Definition
Former
OPCON
Preparedness
Phase
Normal conditions
5
Monitoring Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to save
life & property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
Evacuation Phase
Initiate evacuation of
affected region
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry Phase
Confer with EMA to
develop a re-entry
plan
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
III.
COMMUNICATIONS AND WARNING
A)
Responsibility
Sequence of Events
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
In accordance with ESF 2 of the LEOP, Communications and Warning are the primary
responsibility of the 911 Telecommunications Center. The Rincon Police, Springfield
Police and the Sheriff’s Department will provide secondary support to this function.
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness
The 911 Center and EMA will ensure that primary and alternate communication and
warning systems are operational at all times.
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C)
Response/Recovery
The 911 Center is responsible for the receipt and relay of warning messages. Messages
are recorded and the information is relayed to appropriate individuals by radio or
telephone.
Tropical cyclone information is received via National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, GEMA fax, and/or GEMA State Radio Network
(45.56 MHz).

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Coral Gables, FL, gathers and interprets
information about Atlantic tropical weather disturbances from many different
sources. If a disturbance intensifies to tropical storm strength and appears to be
headed toward land, the NHC will begin to issue public and marine advisories.
Occasional bulletins may also be issued to further amplify routine information
provided by the advisories. As the storm reaches hurricane strength and is
headed toward the U.S. coastline, a hurricane watch may be issued from the
NHC. Once the area of hurricane landfall is more positively identified and the
storm is expected to come ashore in 24 hours or less, a hurricane warning is
issued. Areas of the coast for which such a warning has been issued may expect
dangerous hurricane winds or storm surge to strike. As the storm comes very
close to shore, the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Jacksonville,
Florida may issue local storm statements designed to provide specific information
about the anticipated effects of the storm for Camden and surrounding counties.

A hurricane’s strength, or intensity, is ranked on a scale of 1 to 5, a system
known as the Saffir-Simpson Scale. Categories are determined by barometric
pressure (in inches) in the center of the hurricane, wind speed, storm surge, and
extent of damage. See scale in Appendix B.
Inter-Agency Warning
When activated by local government officials, emergency alert notification will be carried
out via radio communication according to the LEOP. If necessary, commercial
telephone will be used to augment radio alerts as instructed by the EMA Director. An
alert roster will be maintained by the EMA office.

Official messages are re-broadcast over the Sheriff’s frequency, the Rincon
Police frequency, Sprinfield Police frequency and the Fire Rescue frequency.
Emergency Management Agency (EMA) can also communicate on these
frequencies.

County departments communicate via the County Public Works radio network
(153.875 MHz). All departments are equipped with radios including the EMA.
Mobile radio units as well as walkie-talkies facilitate the basic system.

Georgia Forestry Commission has a radio unit on the County network.

The Board of Education, which maintains a separate network, can be reached by
the EMA.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP

City Public Works departments maintain communication via a City Public Works
radio network.

Intergovernmental communication between City and County departments is
achieved through City & County police networks and City & County fire
department networks.

Communication with inland County EMA offices is achieved through the EMA
radio network or by telephone.
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (Ham Operators) in Effingham County will
support emergency operations. A representative will be present in the EOC to serve as
a liaison between the ARES network and intergovernmental networks. In the event of a
power outage, ARES becomes the primary means of communication.
Interagency communication will continue to operate via normal radio channels until the
Watch & Warning Phase takes effect. At that point, the Emergency Operations Center
(EOC) will be fully manned with representatives of each response group. The EOC will
become the central communication base for all groups as set forth in the local EOP.
Public Warning
Groups in the County requiring special notification of impending danger are listed below:

Retirement / nursing homes
In the critical phases of evacuation, the EMA Director may dispatch mobile
communication units from the Sheriff’s Office and City Police Depts. to use loudspeakers
to encourage evacuation. It is recommended that door-to-door warnings be carried out
by uniformed personnel to lend credence to the warning.
V.
PUBLIC INFORMATION
A)
Responsibility
The Public Information Officer (PIO) develops, prepares and coordinates distribution of
news releases, public information, publications and interviews regarding relevant
emergency management issues to enhance public awareness and understanding.
The EMA Director will designate a PIO to act as chief spokesperson.
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness
Disaster awareness activities will occur year-round and include newspaper articles, radio
public service announcements (PSA’s), and group presentations.
NOAA weather radios and special preparedness information will be provided to at-risk
segments of the general population such as groups with special medical needs,
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
buildings with large concentrations of people, and vulnerable coastal areas. Distribution
will include:
C)

Senior citizen centers, retirement/nursing homes

Schools, day-care centers, churches

Large industries, shopping centers
Response/Recovery
Public information will be vital to effective evacuation and re-entry operations.
Warnings and emergency information to the public will be disseminated through the
news media (radio, television, and newspapers), National Weather Service (NWS)
bulletins, advisories and statements, and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency
(GEMA). The designated area for local media briefings and/or press conferences is the
EMA Planning Room. Emergency statements will be made near regular news broadcast
times to reach the greatest number of listeners.
Upon announcement of an evacuation recommendation or order, the EMA Director or
PIO will notify the appropriate radio and television stations. Topics will include:

Status of the storm, evacuation recommendation or order

Identification of areas or zones to be evacuated

Instructions to residents (e.g. stay in home, be available to help with evacuees)

Information to local residents about shelters

Evacuation routes to inland counties

Location of reception centers and designated shelters in inland counties.

Information for evacuees in shelters

Location of roadblocks, closed roads, and other appropriate traffic information
Inquiries coming into the EMA office will be answered by the Director, PIO, or a
previously-designated spokesperson. Public information may also be given by GEMA
officials at the urging of the Governor. This will not, however, be done without consulting
local officials.
After an evacuation, re-entry instructions and information will be broadcast to evacuees
as quickly as possible. The PIO will coordinate closely with the State Operations Center
to issue joint press releases about when it is safe for residents to return to the area.
Joint press releases may be needed after a mass evacuation when there is no reported
damage because of return traffic management issues. Some Public Information issues
are:

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Protective actions to be taken by families and individuals
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP

General status, including restrictions, in the affected area

Damage assessment estimates (if any)

Public utility conditions

Actions by local, state and federal agencies

Statements from elected officials

Shelter and recovery site locations

Security issues

Rumor control
IV.
EVACUATION
A)
Responsibility
The decision to evacuate part or all of the population from a threatened or stricken area
rests with the Chairman of the Effingham County Commission and the Mayors.
The Sheriff’s Department and the Police Depts with support from Effingham EMA, will
assist with evacuation of people in storm surge zones during the threat of a hurricane.
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness
Evacuation routes will be pre-determined and made readily available to the public.
Authorities
The Georgia Emergency Management Act provides the authority to the County
Commission or elected authority to order evacuation when deemed necessary to save
lives. The EMA will make recommendations to elected officials based on information
gathered from all available sources, including HURREVAC software, the National
Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center.
If deemed necessary, or after the Governor has declared a “state of emergency”, the
appropriate local official can direct and compel the evacuation of all or part of the
population from any stricken disaster area within the County.
C)
Response/Recovery
Decision Making
Elected officials weigh a number of factors in deciding whether evacuation is necessary
for Camden County. They also consider recommendations from the EMA Director about
protective actions.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
To support such decisions, the EMA uses the latest technology while also discussing the
situation with various federal, state and local agencies. Recommendations and
decisions are made as a joint process with consensus being the goal.
An important tool in the decision-making process is a computer software program called
HURREVAC that graphically monitors the track of the storm based upon the input of the
official forecast advisories from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Unlike public web
sites, HURREVAC is only available to government emergency management officials.
Conference Calls
The EMA will participate in calls with GEMA, local NWS offices, and border counties.
Phased Evacuation
Evacuation procedures will be organized to move people in a timely and orderly fashion.
Residents will depart in phases according to their evacuation zone and along predesignated travel routes (see maps in Appendices C and E).
Zone 1:
This high risk zone includes the Barrier Islands and areas generally 1
to 10 feet above mean sea level, and other locations that are adjacent
to low-lying areas vulnerable to being quickly isolated by rising
waters.
Zone 2:
Areas that are 10 to 20 feet above mean sea level.
Zone 3:
Areas that are more than 20 feet above mean sea level. These
generally include the remaining low-lying areas east of I-95 and some
areas west of I-95.
The basic evacuation phases are:

Voluntary-Partial – Residents of Zone 1, people with severe special needs, and
people living in manufactured housing are encouraged to leave.

Voluntary-Full – Entire County (all zones) encouraged to leave with continued
emphasis on above residents.

Mandatory-Partial – Authorities compel residents of Zone 1 to leave.

Mandatory-Full – Authorities compel all residents of Zones 1-3 to depart before
onset of gale force winds.
Traffic Control
Law enforcement personnel will monitor and control traffic along evacuation routes and
provide security to shelters.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
VI.
MASS CARE AND SHELTER SERVICES
A)
Responsibility
The Effingham County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) has the
primary responsibility of emergency mass care and sheltering. The American Red Cross
will act in partnership with DFCS.
B)
Mitigation/Preparedness
DFCS will maintain an emergency shelter directory with the State of Georgia. Additional
shelters must be evaluated and approved by the Red Cross before they can be included
in the directory.
C)
Response/Recovery
Depending on the severity of the storm and the expected effects of storm surge,
residents will be instructed to report to either local shelters or those located in inland
counties.
The American Red Cross will open and operate shelters with the support of DFCS and
the County Health Department. The EMA will establish a communication link with the
shelters by assigning an ARES operator to each one.
VII.
RE-ENTRY PHASES
Re-entry procedures will be carried out in accordance with State protocols.
A)
Phase I – State and Local Authorized Re-Entry
a.
Response Level 1 (State Response)
During this stage, only critical work force personnel will be allowed back into the
impacted communities to assess damages and begin repairs. Critical work force
agencies consist of Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT), Georgia State
Patrol (GSP), GEMA, Georgia Power, and other agencies as requested.
b.
Response Level 2 (Local Response)
This stage is restricted to local government staff, law enforcement, utility workers,
and emergency personnel. County work crews will be allowed to return and
begin the repair process. As roads, highways, and bridges are cleared and
declared safe for use, additional agencies and personnel will be allowed to
return. (See Section G: Clean-Up and Recovery)
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
B)
Phase II – Public Re-Entry
It is the joint responsibility of the County Commission Chairman, the Mayors, and the
EMA Director to determine when public re-entry will begin.
The safety of the public is a prime consideration at all times during the re-entry process.
After local officials secure the impacted areas and deem them safe for access, anyone
with evidence of business ownership or residency in the evacuated areas will be allowed
re-entry.
C)
Phase III – Normal Operations
Normal operations are restored.
D)
Re-Entry Requirements
Re-entry requires that everyone has some form of picture identification, classifying them
clearly as an employee with critical response functions. Some employees may have an
EMA-issued re-entry card for their vehicle. Families may not return with individuals in
possession of re-entry cards.
VIII.
CLEAN-UP AND RECOVERY
These activities occur during Re-Entry Phase I, Response Level 2 (Local).
A)
Responsibility
The County Commission Chairman, the Mayors and the EMA Director have the
responsibility to:

Make the initial assessment to identify priority areas for clean-up activities.

Provide a local representative, as required, to assist the joint federal/state/local
preliminary damage assessment (PDA) team.

Dispatch clean-up crews.

Coordinate with appropriate federal and state agencies and private utility
companies in damage assessment and clean-up.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
B)
Damage Assessment
The EMA will dispatch damage assessment teams to perform a preliminary evaluation of
the area. If local teams need assistance, GEMA and FEMA can be requested to join the
damage assessment efforts.
The County will submit damage reports to the Governor. Depending on the magnitude
of the storm, the disaster may be undeclared or declared. Each situation will require a
somewhat different approach.
C)

Undeclared:
The County is responsible for cost and coordination of clean-up
and recovery.

Declared:
State and federal agencies become involved in recovery efforts,
providing personnel and equipment to help restore essential public
facilities and services.
Clean-Up
When the damage has been properly assessed and documented, clean-up efforts will
begin. Essential work forces will begin moving back into the affected area from inland
counties. Chief officials and the EMA Director will make decisions for specific recovery
priorities.
Debris removal and utility restoration will be the first priorities in recovery efforts. Major
arterial streets and roads should be designated in the planning stages and mapped out.
Movement of emergency vehicles and restoration teams will be the prime consideration
in clearing transportation routes.
Communications restoration will also be a priority in recovery efforts. The need to
disseminate emergency public information in the aftermath will be critical. Radios and
television stations in unaffected areas housing evacuees will be the primary means of
communicating with the public. Newspapers in unaffected areas may be another
method of providing public information.
The primary local warning station (911 Center) should receive priority consideration in
restoring power, if feasible. An alternate priority should be identified in order to restore
communication with the public as soon as possible.
Provisions must be made to maintain communications between damage assessment
and clean-up teams. Mobile communications may provide adequate relay service
supplemented by hand-held radios. Amateur radio operations should also be utilized in
communication networks in the immediate recovery environment.
Urban, rural and marine search and rescue will be required if a major hurricane makes
landfall. Initial searches will be conducted in the most vulnerable areas (e.g. storm
surge zones and mobile home parks).
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Law enforcement will be tasked with a variety of critical assignments. Some issues are:
traffic control, security at critical facilities, fraud and consumer protection, and mutual aid
coordination.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Appendix A: Hurricane Action Phase Charts
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
911
Former
OPCON
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Review SOP.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
2008 Edition
 Monitor Operation Status.
 Correct Deficiencies.
 Attend Briefings.
 Assign personnel to stand-by or locate in EOC.
 Continue operations & monitor evacuation.
 Locate in EOC if necessary.
 Assess damage.
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Facilitate Repairs.
 Locate in Communications Center
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Administration City/County
Former
OPCON
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Ensure update of County Hurricane Response Plans.
 Support exercise to test plan.
 Meet with department heads and county EMA to prepare
for hurricane season review responsibilities.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Prepare to maintain continuity of government.
 Encourage public awareness activities.
 Select damage assessment team members for the coming
hurricane season.
 Arrange with County EMA Director and FEMA, GEMA,
and Corps of Engineers for damage assessment training
sessions.
 Participate in department head briefing’s.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Provide executive direction and control.
 Become familiar with damage assessment and reporting
procedures.
 Standby to locate in EOC to provide Direction & Control.
Evacuation
Phase
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Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
2&3
1&2
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
 Locate in EOC.
 Activate EAS if necessary.
 Continue monitoring evacuation progress and emergency
operations.
 Locate in alternate EOC if necessary.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Re-entry Phase
2008 Edition
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Make initial damage assessment.
 Coordinate priorities for recovery.
 Assist federal/state damage assessment.
 Request assistance if necessary.
Page 19
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Amateur Radio
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Sequence of Events
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
2008 Edition
Actions

Normal daily operations and routines

Normal daily operations and routines. Activate EOC Radio Room
as Directed by EMA Director

Check all radio’s and antenna’s to insure proper operation
24-48 hours before
potential landfall

Be prepared to go to full time operation in the EOC Radio Room
as needed to support operations
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall

EOC Radio Room to be on 24 hour operation to handle
messages to and from GEMA and other EOC’s
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages

n/a
Assist with communications for the EOC and other supported
agencies as per the direction of the EMA Director
Page 20
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Preparedness
Phase
Monitoring
Phase
Watch & Warning
Phase
2008 Edition
Definitions
Normal
conditions
Potential threat
sighted
Take action to
save life &
property
Effingham County Animal Control
Former
OPCON
5
4
2&3
Sequence of Events
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
Actions

Maintain daily operations.

Update and review SOP’s.

Update employee roster and emergency phone
numbers.

Keep vehicles fueled and maintained at all times.

Inventory resources.

Develop and maintain contacts (DART, AVMA, AC’s,
etc.)

Develop priority list.

Issue alert to employees.

Inform employees of shelter arrangements and
evacuation routes.

Check and secure outdoor equipment.

Check emergency supplies.

Review priority list.

Alert employees of watches and warnings.

Check and test all necessary equipment.

Back up all computers. (48hours out).

Euthanize and remove all carcasses (36-48 hours out,
depending on Road Dept).

Send kennel technician with animals.

Load and transport animals to Vidalia, et al. (36 hours
out).

Notify mutual aid communities of evacuation and
approximate time of arrival.

Maintain communications with employees.
Page 21
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Evacuation
Phase
Re-entry Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
1&2
n/a
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages

Relocate computers (hard drives). (24 hours out).

Evacuate families and pets to safe place (24-36 hours
out).

Keep in contact with employees as possible.

Monitor and maintain communications (NOAA).

Re-entry of employees (only).

Assess situation and take appropriate action.

Document situation (photos, digital camera, video
camera).

Provide mutual aid to other agencies in county as
necessary.

Depending upon need, prepare to request AVMA, DART
teams for assistance.
Prepare to bring animals back into county.

2008 Edition
Page 22
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Board of Education____
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Update internal Standard Operating Procedures.
 Conduct in-house training.
 Participate in local jurisdictional exercises.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Maintain equipment in serviceable condition.
 Maintain inventory of resources, i.e., personnel,
equipment, vehicles and supplies.
 Conduct joint inspections of shelters with Red Cross and
local EMA to ensure adequacy of facilities.
 Review school plans and procedures with key personnel.
 Review shelter plans with shelter manager and Red Cross.
 Check school buses for maintenance and gas all vehicles.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Alert personnel and ensure adequate drivers transportation
assistance.
 Review evacuation routes with bus drivers: Provide maps.
 Review plans for transporting special populations.
 Coordinate preparation as necessary.
 Discussion of closing schools to begin.
 Close schools if school is in session.
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
2008 Edition
2&3
1&2
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
 Ensure the opening of schools for public shelter &
appropriate Staff if necessary.
 Coordinate with EMA and DFACS to provide
transportation for dependent population
 Continue shelter Operations.
 Continue assistance with evacuation transportation.
 Continue transportation to shelters.
Page 23
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
 Continue to assist with shelter services.
 Assist in moving medical, food and priority supplies to
and among shelters as required and as conditions permit.
Re-entry Phase
2008 Edition
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
 Coordinate transportation needs with other agencies.
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Phase out shelters when ordered by EOC.
 Assess damage to school facilities.
 Document expenses and losses.
Page 24
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Preparedness
Phase
Monitoring
Phase
Watch & Warning
Phase
Definitions
Normal
conditions
Potential threat
sighted
Take action to
save life &
property
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
2008 Edition
Dept. of Family and Children Services (DFCS)
Former
OPCON
5
4
2&3
1&2
n/a
Sequence of Events
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
Actions

Update internal SOP.

Conduct in-house hurricane response training.

Participate in local jurisdictional exercises.

Maintain equipment in serviceable condition.

Maintain inventory of resources, i.e., personal, equipment,
vehicles and supplies.

Coordinate with Red Cross to support shelter functions.

Review plans and procedures with personnel.

Alert personnel.

Assist in shelter preparation and staffing.

Review emergency assignments with personnel.

Assist with evacuation of nursing homes and other dependent
populations.

Coordinate with Superintendent of Schools & Red Cross on
shelter requirements (food, clothing, shelter staff, etc.).

Assign personnel to assist in shelters as needed.

Continue close coordination with Red Cross and County EMA to
assist in shelter operations and evacuation.

Assist Red Cross in shelter functions.

Assist with evacuation transportation as requested.

Continue assistance in shelter operations.

Assist in damage assessment.

Provide social services.
Page 25
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
EMA
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Update Hurricane Response Plan.
 Check warning system & update notification.
 Ensure that shelters are adequate.
 Release general information to the public (Education Awareness
Program).
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Meet with department heads to ensure current SOP’s.
 Conduct exercise to test plan.
 Inventory resources.
 Direct County Board of Commissioners to sponsor a damage
assessment training session(s) for identified county damage
assessment teams.
 Arrange with FEMA, GEMA and Corp of Engineers for Damage
assessment Training Session(s).
 Notify all county/city departments of required attendance at
damage assessment training session(s).
 Issue alert to all departments.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Review plans and procedures with department heads.
 Review priority lists.
 Issue “Watch or Warning” message to all departments.
 Activate EOC and man 24 hours.
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
 Review assignments of EOC staff and personnel.
 Test radios and check auxiliary generators.
 Maintain coordination/communication with Area 5 GEMA
Coordinator.
 Evacuate nursing homes and other concentration of
2008 Edition
Page 26
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
dependent population.
 Notify Red Cross of voluntary evacuation to provide for
adequate shelters.
 Notify Host County EMA.
 Provide public information to news media.
 Provide voluntary evacuation from low lying areas and
mobile homes.
 Encourage campers and tourists to leave areas, contact
motels/hotels.
 Strongly urge voluntary evacuation or issue evacuation
orders and activate the EAS warning system.
 Evacuation order issued.
 Notify host county EMA Director.
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
 Monitor evacuation progress.
 Maintain open circuit communication with Area 5.
 Relocate in alternate EOC when necessary.
 Dispatch damage assessment teams.
 Document damage related expenses.
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
 Document damage assessment.
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Coordinate government department activities in recovery
in close corporation with the GEMA, chief elected officials
and other agencies.
 Request recovery assistance if appropriate.
2008 Edition
Page 27
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Fire Service
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Update internal SOP.
 Conduct in house hurricane response training.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Participate in local jurisdiction exercise.
 Maintain equipment in serviceable condition.
 Maintain inventory of resources, i.e., personnel,
equipment and vehicles.
 Alert all personnel.
 Review plans and procedures.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Check all equipment, vehicle and make other preparations
as necessary.
 Coordinate with County EMA office.
 Review emergency assignments.
 Place all units on stand-by or dispatch as necessary.
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
 Place representative in EOC.
 Mobilize personnel.
 Evacuate fire fighting equipment if required.
 Coordinate Activities.
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a re-
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
2008 Edition
 Continue assistance as conditions permits.
 Continue assistance as capabilities permit.
 Coordinate with outside fire support as needed.
Page 28
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
entry plan
2008 Edition
Page 29
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Preparedness
Phase
Definitions
Normal
conditions
Effingham County Health Department
Former
OPCON
5
Sequence of Events
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
Actions
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Update internal SOP annually
Conduct in-house hurricane response training
Participate in local jurisdictional exercises
Stockpile emergency medical supplies through the Coastal
Health District and the Strategic National Pharmaceutical
Stockpile
Maintain inventory of resources
Maintain roster of nurses for shelter staff in coordination with
Red Cross
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Review plans and procedures
Alert Personnel
Plan/provide for emergency first aid and medical facilities
Check status of medical equipment/supplies within jurisdiction
Coordinate with other departments/agencies providing similar
services
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
1.
2.
Dispatch health care staff and supplies to shelters
Report health supply needs to EOC
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
1.
Continue dispatching health care supplies and staff to shelters
as requested
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
1.
2.
3.
Set up temporary medical clinics
Assist in damage assessment
Evaluate and provide to EOC recommendations on health
aspects of damaged areas
2008 Edition
Page 30
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Information Technology Department
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Sequence of Events
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
Watch & Warning
Phase
Evacuation
Phase
Re-entry Phase
2008 Edition
Take action to
save life &
property
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
2&3
1&2
n/a
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
Actions

Normal daily operations.

Quarterly review of Hurricane/Evacuation SOP.

Director meets with IT Staff for in depth review of Hurricane SOP.

Director meets with Department Heads to discuss Hurricane SOP
and Evacuation of data storage equipment.

List of Department contacts with office keys is compiled.

IT staff inspect wide area network and verifies that all network
routing equipment is on UPS devices.

Emergency File Server is updated with current copy of software
and Data.

Emergency file server is placed in the EMA EOC.

EVAC Van is acquired from Records Management.

File Server evacuation to IT Office may begin.

All departmental file servers are loaded in EVAC van.

IT Operations shutdown, EOC Emergency File Server brought
online.

IT Director reports to EMA EOC, to continue network operations.

EVAC Van leaves County with File Servers

EVAC Van returns

IT staff evaluate condition of County buildings

Emergency LAN is setup and brought online.

Workers are allowed access to Emergency LAN.

IT Staff begin rebuilding/repairing County WAN.
Page 31
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Preparedness
Phase
Monitoring
Phase
Watch & Warning
Phase
Evacuation
Phase
Re-entry Phase
2008 Edition
Definitions
Normal
conditions
Potential threat
sighted
Take action to
save life &
property
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
Effingham County Joint Planning Commission
Former
OPCON
5
4
2&3
1&2
n/a
Sequence of Events
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
Actions

Review SOP

Attend workshop

Inventory supplies

Keep vehicles fueled & maintained

Make sure radio contact is maintained

Meet with key employees

Attend county briefing

Monitor threat on TV & radio

Review employee assignments

Review evacuation plans

Take action to protect office equipment and records

Assist in public announcement if needed

Discuss re-entry with employees

Disconnect phones, turn off lights, and lock doors of office

Employees evacuate

Assist in evacuation if needed

Building Official report to EOC

Report to staging center

Re-establish power & water to emergency care facilities &
government offices

Aid in re-establishing water & power to residences and
businesses

Assist in damage assessment
Page 32
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Law Enforcement______
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Update internal SOP including map resources.
 Conduct in house hurricane response training.
 Participate in local jurisdictional exercise.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Maintain equipment in serviceable condition.
 Maintain inventory of resources i.e. personnel, equipment,
vehicles.
 Participate in community awareness efforts.
 Review plans and procedures.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Check equipment and gas vehicles.
 Maintain communication/coordination with State Patrol
and Dept. of Natural Resources.
 Notify all personnel of “Watch & Warning”.
 Check generators and extra fuel storage.
 Review emergency assignments and personnel.
 Assist motorists evacuating voluntarily.
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
 Establish traffic control points
 Place mobile communications units on stand-by alert.
 Report evacuation progress to EMA in EOC.
 Finalize plans to direct evacuation when ordered.
 Notify all personnel of warning and mobilize forces.
 Place commander or representative in EOC.
Evacuation
2008 Edition
Initiate
1&2
12-24 hours before
 Vehicle with sound equipment dispatched to evacuation
Page 33
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Phase
evacuation of
affected region
potential landfall
areas for warning and control.
 Patrol and secure evacuation area and lend assistance as
conditions permit.
 Coordinate communication between shelters, checkpoints
and EOC.
 Move stragglers to best available shelter.
 Provide rescue assistance as required.
 Maintain order, prevent looting.
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
 Check personnel and equipment; request needed
assistance.
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Control access to evacuated areas.
 Maintain coordination with GEMA and all law enforcement
branches.
 Issue passes to identified relief personnel.
2008 Edition
Page 34
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Public Works
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Maintain a current roster with emergency response teams
and work assignments.
 Assure availability and operation of auxiliary generators.
 Assure communication links with maintenance crews and
homes of key employees.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Stockpile basic materials (chemicals, supplies) necessary
for emergency operation of water and sewer facilities.
 Locate providers of sandbag or other levee materials to
protect water treatment plant and pumping stations.
 Maintain listing of providers for emergency water supply
and storage.
 Anticipate priorities for recovery efforts.
 Alert key employees.
 Attend county governmental briefing.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Notify employees of shelter arrangements and
identification procedures for essential work force.
 Identify emergency staging center for clean-up and
recovery efforts.
 Evacuate families of emergency workers.
 Transfer all portable equipment to appropriate sites.
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
 Evacuate vital records.
 Shut off power to all equipment as appropriate.
 Prepare to evacuate.
2008 Edition
Page 35
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
 Assign crew to remain at nearest practical staging area.
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
2008 Edition
1&2
n/a
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Evacuate all other employees to designated shelter.
 Valve off water tanks.
 Essential work force report to staging center for work
assignments.
 Develop priorities for recovery based on severity of
damage.
Page 36
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Records Management
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Sequence of Events
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
Actions
 Update and review SOPs
 Update employee roster and emergency contacts.
 Keep vehicles feuded and maintained at all times.
 Issue alert to key employees.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
2008 Edition
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
 Attend county governmental briefing.
 Inform employees of shelters arrangements & evacuation
routes.
 Notify personnel of Watch & Warning.
 Evacuate vital records, including computer backups.
 Make final preparations to close and evacuate office.
 Evacuate if necessary.
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall

n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
Conduct immediate damage assessment of office
building, equipment.
Page 37
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Effingham County Road Department
Former
OPCON
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Provide to EMA an inventory of equipment including
vehicles, barricade materials for road blocks, directional
signs and flags.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Maintain roster of emergency response teams with
assignments.
 Identify essential work force for recovery efforts.
 Develop priorities for cleanup.
 Prepare to assist in Evacuation and traffic control.
 Notify staff of shelter arrangements.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Notify staff of appropriate procedures for receiving
identification cards.
 Identify staging center for clean-up and recovery efforts.
 Man base radio station 24 hours.
 Prepare to secure and evacuate buildings.
Watch & Warning
Phase
Evacuation
Phase
2008 Edition
Take action to
save life &
property
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
 Evacuate portable equipment to alternate location.
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
 Prepare to dispatch traffic control teams and road blocks
as requested.
 Evacuate families of staff members assigned an
emergency response function.
 Evacuate (if necessary).
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
Page 38
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Re-entry Phase
2008 Edition
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Assist in damage assessment.
 Clear county roads of debris.
Page 39
Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Solid Waste Authority
Sequence of Events
Actions
 Update and review SOPs.
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
 Maintain a current roster with emergency response teams
and work assignments.
 Keep vehicles fueled and maintained at all times.
 Anticipate priorities for recovery efforts.
 Issue alert to key employees.
 Attend county government briefing.
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Notify employees of shelter arrangements & identification
procedures for essential work force.
 Identify emergency staging center for clean-up & recovery
efforts.
 Alert staff of watch and warning.
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
 Review assignments of personnel.
 Evacuate portable equipment to alternate location if
conditions warrant.
 Evacuate family members of emergency workers.
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
2008 Edition
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Evacuate all employees to nearest practical staging area.
 Coordinate with EMA as necessary.

Essential work force – report to staging center for work
assignments.

Assist in clean-up and recovery efforts.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
APPENDIX A: HURRICANE ACTION PHASE CHECKLIST
For
Voter Registration
Phase
Definitions
Former
OPCON
Sequence of Events
Preparedness
Phase
Normal
conditions
5
June 1 – November 30
(Hurricane Season)
Actions
 Update and review SOPs.
 Update employee roster and emergency contacts.
 Keep vehicles fueled and maintained at all times.
 Issue alert to key employees
Monitoring
Phase
Potential threat
sighted
Watch & Warning
Phase
Take action to
save life &
property
Evacuation
Phase
Initiate
evacuation of
affected region
Re-entry Phase
Confer with
EMA to
develop a reentry plan
4
More than 48-72 hours
before potential landfall
 Attend county government briefing.
 Inform employees of shelter arrangements & evacuation
routes.
 Notify personnel of Watch & Warning.
2008 Edition
2&3
24-48 hours before
potential landfall
1&2
12-24 hours before
potential landfall
n/a
Re-entry time contingent
upon extent of damages
 Review assignments of personnel.
 Evacuate vital records, including computer backups.
 Make final preparations to close and evacuate office.
 Evacuate, if necessary.
 Conduct immediate damage assessment of office
building, equipment.
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Appendix B: Hurricane Intensity Scale
A hurricane’s strength is ranked on a scale of 1 to 5, a system known as the SAFFIRSIMPSON SCALE. Categories are determined by barometric pressure (in inches) in the
center of the hurricane, wind speed, storm surge, and extent of damage.
CATEGORY
PRESSURE
(INCHES)
WIND (MPH)
STORM SURGE
(FEET)
DAMAGE
CAT 1
28.94 AND UP
74-95
4-5
MINIMAL
CAT 2
28.50 - 28.93
96-110
6-8
MODERATE
CAT 3
27.91 - 28.49
111-130
9-12
EXTENSIVE
CAT 4
27.17 - 27.90
131-155
13-18
EXTREME
CAT 5
27.17 OR LESS
155 OR MORE
18 OR HIGHER
CATASTROPHIC
2008 Edition
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Appendix C: Effingham County Shelters
The following shelters in Effingham County have been approved to be opened by the EMA in
coordination with the American Red Cross:
LOCAL SHELTERS (CAT. 1-2 ONLY)
LOCATION
ADDRESS
ELEV.
Effingham County High
1589 Hwy 119 South
102.00'
South Effingham High
1200 Noel C. Conaway Rd.
63.83’
Guyton Elementary
719 Central Blvd.
100.50'
South Effingham Elementary
767 Kolick Helmly Rd.
61.00'
Ebenezer Elementary
1198 Ebenezer Rd.
61.25'
Ebenezer Middle
1190 Ebenezer Rd.
61.25
Sandhill Elementary
199 Stage Coach Rd.
54.25'
South Effingham Middle
1200 Noel C. Conaway
63.83'
Elam Egypt Church
2166 Ardmore Egypt Rd.
First Baptist, Springfield
1436 Hwy 119
CAPACITY
475
475
260
366
260
260
366
340
200
360
*Local shelters will not be available for a severe Category 3-5 hurricane.
2008 Edition
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
Appendix D: Primary Evacuation Routes Inside & Outside Effingham County and
the Atlantic Coast
EVACUATION ROUTES INSIDE EFFINGHAM COUNTY
Routes are: Hwy 80 North, Hwy 17 North, Hwy 21 North
2008 Edition
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
EVACUATION ROUTES OUTSIDE EFFINHHAM COUNTY
Designated Hurricane Evacuation Center communities are:
Primary
Augusta (Richmond County)
Douglas (Coffee County)
Dublin (Laurens County)
Macon (Bibb County)
Statesboro (Bulloch County)
Alternate
Baxley (Appling County)
Claxton (Evans County)
Metter (Candler County)
Sylvania (Screven County)
Vidalia (Toombs County)
Tifton (Tift County)
County
2008 Edition
Waycross (Ware
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Effingham County Hurricane Preparedness & Response SOP
2008 Edition
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