West+Service+Learning+Project

West Service Learning Project  Writer chose to contact Lamar Mitchell of Florala (retired police chief) regarding a project that was brought to writer several years ago on disaster preparedness. Since we live in an area with high prospect of hurricane involvement the idea of having an emergency response team consisting of those of us in health care was kindled by a prior county commissioner Vernon Robbins. He tried valiantly to put this team together but sadly passed away without seeing it to completion.  Writer's time was spent devising a general list for the public to have in preparation of hurricane season and in discussion of making the emergency response team a reality. The area does have police and fire volunteers who aid if the area is hit by violent storm but there is not a medical response team in the vicinity. The old armory hall is designated to be used as a shelter for citizens who may become homeless. The team could set up base here. Not only can the city population receive aid from the team, but our rural constituents (many who are elderly) would benefit also. This is one volunteer group writer looks forward to becoming a part of in the future. Below is writer's list for the average household in and around the area. Writer did consult the county health department regarding this subject. 
 * 1) Water for drinking and hygiene one gallon per day per person (can be purified if contamination is questionable by boiling from 3 to 5 minutes).
 * 2) A two week supply of non perishable food per person
 * 3) Household items: flashlight, radio(to remain aware of weather reports) both battery operated. A supply of C, D and 9volt batteries- most necessary household items will use one of these types.
 * 4) Personal items will vary per household according to personal needs: extra clothes, blankets, oral care items and toothpaste, feminine products, incontinence products, toilet tissue, etc.
 * 5) A basic first aid kit which can be purchased at most pharmacies or put together by the individual
 * 6) A hand held can opener
 * 7) Hand sanitizer
 * 8) At least a month's worth of prescription medicines taken routinely and any over the counter medicines relied upon regularly.