Time to plan for storm season

With hurricane season heating up, it’s important for USA Health employees to update their family storm plans and monitor tropical disturbances in the Gulf of Mexico. These steps ensure that USA Health facilities will remain open to respond to the needs of the community.

If a hurricane is forecasted and being tracked toward Mobile or the Alabama Gulf Coast, it may require the activation of the health system’s Emergency Operation Plan. When the EOP is activated, all employees are considered essential and are expected to be available for work regardless of previous schedules, according to Sam Dean, administrator for USA Health University Hospital. Only senior administration can approve employee exemptions based on extenuating circumstances.

Employees should update their personal hurricane plans for family members and pets so they will be ready if a storm draws near. USA Health facilities are not able to accommodate family members or pets.

“The safety of our employees and their families is of the utmost importance,” said Chris Jett, administrator of USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “We strongly encourage each employee to develop a plan in advance and as part of their preparations to care for their own family, realizing that they may be called into work.”

Mass notifications may be sent to employees from everbridge.com through voice, text and emails. Employees are responsible for updating their contact information and maintaining contact with their supervisors.

During emergency operations, employees are required to obtain approval from a manager prior to leaving work. If necessary, managers will provide sleeping arrangements for staff already on duty. All employees are required to have their ID badges visible at all times.

When reporting to work during emergency operations, employees should bring a four-day supply of the following:

• Linens or sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, towels, flashlight and batteries.
• Nonperishable food and snacks, water, soda and any special dietary needs.
• Several changes of clothing, toiletries and soap.
• Personal medication including nonprescription items and medical assistive devices and supplies.