Recent weather patterns have produced significant flooding in several Kentucky areas and those same weather patterns have set the stage for potential significant flooding in the near future including flooding along the Ohio. At this writing flood warnings still existed for multiple counties in the Commonwealth.

EMS entities should contact their local Emergency Management Agency to ascertain their role in the County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and to make preparations now for the provision of emergency medical services in flooding or high water conditions. This could potentially include maintaining service with reduced staff as a result of staff members or staff member’s family being involved in or directly affected by the flood. As a result, service directors should encourage their staff to get prepared as well.

Charles O’Neal, Deputy Executive Director stated that, "Ambulance providers should immediately make plans to temporarily relocate their ambulance and dispatch operations should it become necessary. Providers should also be prepared to integrate into the operations of the local Emergency Operations Center should it be activated. Also, emergency medical personnel at all levels, should be prepared to operate in adverse environmental conditions for extended periods of time should flooding occur."

EMS providers and personnel have functioned admirably during recent calamities that have included ice storms, flooding, and industrial explosions. The intent of this advisory is not to suggest that providers are not prepared to deal with emergencies that may face them, but merely emphasizes the need to bring out plans, review them, and provide staff with re-familiarization of those plans.

O’Neal further stated, "The old rule of the five P’s still applies – Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance. Whether in the classroom or in the response arena, preparedness is key to success."

Ambulance providers are encouraged to contact their regional Advisor/Inspectors, if needed, to assist them in reviewing their plans or developing an initial plan. 

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