Councilman Greg Stanton's
Neighborhood News Council Corner Column
October 2005 Phoenix Responds to Hurricane Katrina with Compassion, Preparedness
Our thoughts, prayers and support go out to all of those in the Gulf Coast region during this difficult time. Hurricane Katrina spurred Phoenix to action to help those in need, but the crisis was also an important reminder of how we must think more precisely about preparing our own city and homes for an emergency.
Big thanks go to Governor Janet Napolitano and her staff for their leadership in helping with evacuees here in Phoenix. The state teamed with the American Red Cross, the city of Phoenix and other organizations to help hundreds of people. Our Mayor and City Council worked to make sure New Orleans residents landing at Sky Harbor International Airport received a warm welcome on their way to temporary housing at Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum, and I was fortunate to greet evacuees personally as they got off the plane.
Phoenix’s heroic Fire and Police Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team saved about 450 people in New Orleans. Sky Harbor International Airport has dispatched crews to New Orleans airport to help repair that important gateway.
Hurricane Katrina also has led Phoenix to think even more about how we would prepare for and respond to an emergency here. The city has extensive emergency plans and is always working to improve them. In addition, we all need to have plans for our homes and families.
The American Red Cross has excellent information on its Web site,
www.redcross.org. Click on “Get Prepared” on the left. One critical tip is to build a disaster kit, with three days of supplies for each family member. The kit should include water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and any special medical supplies you may need.
Thanks to all of you who helped in any way. Now take a few minutes in your own home to prepare. It could save you and your family if an emergency strikes here. Councilman Greg Stanton represents District 6, which includes north central Phoenix, Ahwatukee Foothills, Arcadia and the Biltmore area. To reach his office, e-mail greg.stanton@phoenix.gov or call 602-262-7491.
