First responders in Baldwin County have begun a new approach to helping residents prepare for and recover after a hurricane. It places greater emphasis on the self-sufficiency of the individuals who choose to stay and weather the storm, rather than evacuate.

The reaction time immediately following the storm’s passing is the most vital to preserving human life.

However, the amount of time that it takes emergency workers to respond can vary greatly. “It could be days. We just don’t know,” Baldwin Emergency Management Agency Shelter Coordinator, Renee Cook said recounting the devastation of Ivan in 2004.

“There were roads blocked, and emergency responders could not get through. There were people just trapped. That’s why we want to go ahead and take the initiative to train these people so they can take care of themselves.”

Now, with the use of a Homeland Security grant, Baldwin County is training the citizens themselves how to be better prepared to recover from a disaster and begin helping others in greater need. This effort is not just for hurricane preparedness, but for any catastrophic emergency like terrorist attacks or other natural disasters.

“We’re training them in medical operations, fire safety, and just basic disaster preparedness,” said Cook. Those heading up this tremendous effort keep their fingers crossed, hoping that emergency responders aren’t the only ones aptly prepared the next time disaster strikes.