KBEMS issues flooding preparedness advisory

Submitted by Letch Day
Kentucky Board of EMS

FRANKFORT — Kentucky Board of EMS officials are issuing an advisory to EMS providers and medical first response agencies regarding emergency preparedness plans as they relate to potential flooding throughout the Commonwealth. 

Upcoming weather patterns may produce significant flooding in several Kentucky areas. Weather patterns have set the stage for potential significant flooding in the Ohio Valley area. Flash Flood Warnings are in existence for multiple counties in the Commonwealth. Following a briefing conducted at the Boone Emergency Operations Center, KBEMS would like to encourage providers across the Commonwealth to review their local flood plans.  Expected conditions from the Corps of Engineers predict that through tomorrow morning we will have received approximately 3.5 inches of rain in portions of Kentucky and that we will likely see at least an additional 3 inches or more once the ruminants of hurricane Katrina makes its way into the Commonwealth.  Additionally, there is 30% to 40% likelihood that we may see tropical storm force winds sustained at 40mph, especially in southern central Kentucky.  The Corps of Engineers are most concerned with the Green River, which they predict may rise to 1 foot below flood stage, and the Licking River, which may rise to 5 feet below flood stage.  All contributories to any river may experience flash flooding in the path of this storm. 

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.

EMS providers and personnel have functioned admirably during recent calamities that have included ice storms, flooding, tornadoes, 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.

Ambulance providers are encouraged to contact their regional Advisor/Inspectors, if needed to assist them in reviewing their plans or developing an initial plan. If flooding occurs in your area you can contact your local EMA and request that KBEMS be notified through the Boone Center for assistance in evacuation.

Letch Day, Regional Administrator stated that, "Ambulance providers should immediately make plans to temporarily relocate their ambulance and dispatch operations should it become necessary. Also, emergency medical personnel at all levels, should be prepared to operate in adverse environmental conditions for extended periods of time should flooding occur."

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