As Tropical Storm Helene approaches Florida's coast, the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) has reassured residents that its members are actively implementing emergency response plans to protect vulnerable populations.
The FHCA and its members prepare year-round for crises, particularly during hurricane season, by training nursing center staff and residents. The Association formally activated its emergency response activities on Monday in anticipation of Tropical Storm Helene. Member nursing centers and assisted living communities have been engaging in preparedness tasks such as fuel checks and generator preparations, disaster planning, emergency supply restocks, facility hardening, and maintaining communication with outside partners.
"Living in Florida means living with the reality of hurricanes. For the long-term care community, preparedness isn’t an option; it’s a duty we have to the residents who call our centers home," said FHCA CEO Emmett Reed. "Our team is in regular communication with long-term care facilities across the state as they begin to implement their emergency preparedness plans ahead of the storm. FHCA is working closely with state officials and utility partners while our facilities are working alongside local emergency management offices, transportation, and utility partners on local decision-making."
FHCA is conducting partner briefings with providers, regulatory and emergency operation agency representatives, utility partners, and other stakeholders to review hurricane planning activities with facilities, field questions from providers, and provide updates in anticipation of the storm.
"We are working around the clock to ensure centers across the state are safe and secure before, during, and after the storm," said Reed. "We are monitoring the storm closely, and each of our facilities is preparing with a detailed plan outlining step-by-step measures to take as the storm draws near. The safety of our residents and staff remains our top priority."