Story Created:
Oct 30, 2012
Story Updated:
Oct 30, 2012
Most of the country has been watching the effects of hurricane sandy on the northeast. Including many people here in Laredo. Some of those, first responders who say every storm can be a learning experience for people everywhere.
We may not be as vulnerable to such a severe storm here in Laredo but firefighters say that doesn't mean we should ignore what is happening across the nation.
Many major cities in the northeast will now have to rebuild following the forceful winds and flooding waters of hurricane sandy. A storm that has people across the country watching.
“Thats not to say its not going to effect us.”
Including first responders in Laredo.
“Before it existed only in role play scenarios and now we're actually seeing what can happen and what it can be and how many people widespread it can be.”
When Sandy landed in New Jersey, Vega says, it was the worst case scenario. The same kind firefighters and officers are constantly preparing for.
Laredo's first responders are keeping a close eye on whats happening here to better respond from here, the command center run by the Laredo Fire Department.
“It's an opportunity to learn what work and what hasn’t worked.”
In the coming days they will dissect every move made.
“What did they do to prepare for this. how did they respond and how are they going to recover.”
This command center is where directions would be given to carry out a plan of action here.
“It doesn't take a worst case scenario to impact this community. It could be a storm or power outage or community outage.”
Hurricane or not, there is one goal in mind.
“We all want to save lives and protect property.”
Vega says these storms can also serve as a reminder to people here to always be prepared for an emergency such as this natural disaster.
For information on how you can be prepared, log on to www.ready.gov.
