So, given that the 72>96 hour post generated a lot of heat and ideas, I've been pondering how to approach our community. One thing that comes out clear from the thread is that expectations are high, and preparation is low. So I've decided to start a draft letter to our community - and I'd like your input. Instead of telling the community what we are PREPARED to do in an emergency, I am going to send a letter telling them what we're NOT going to do.

Something like this (and again, your input is sought)

Dear [Resident Name],

We are in the process of revamping the Emergency Management plans for the Township. As you know, some of the most common threats we face in our area are:

- Severe Weather Events
- River Flooding
- Hazardous Materials Release (from passing trucks)
- Wildfires

In addition, over the next few years, we face a long process of road and bridge construction, all of which affect emergency preparedness.

As a result, we are totally revamping our emergency operations plan and we would like to make sure you understand what the Township and other agencies can can't do in an emergency situation, and with this understanding, we hope that you create a good emergency plan and have the necessary supplies.

We will attempt to notify the community of a large-scale emergency or pending flood and if there is an evacuation needed, we will advise as to where to go if you don't have anywhere else to stay. We can't help you with your personal evacuation transportation and we can't provide you with any supplies, including medical supplies, that you might need after you evacuate.

During an emergency, we will address situations from most critical to least critical - just like patients in an emergency room. If the telecommunications infrastructure is damaged or overloaded, you may not be able to reach 9-1-1. During emergencies, we can provide you with information and recommended action plans, but during an emergency we won't be able to immediately provide the public with drinking water, food or sanitation facilities and we do not have the capacity to provide shelter within the township. We will not be able to provide fuels of any kind. It is critical that you are always ready and supplied as needed in case the power goes out, the roads are blocked, bridges are out or if you have to leave your home unexpectedly, as during the initial phases of an emergency, the most critical emergency resource is YOU.

After an emergency, we will work with multiple agencies to facilitate whatever work is needed to stabilize and/or repair public infrastructure such as roads, telecommunications and electricity. We will assess damage to private property and as conditions warrant, we will dispatch emergency personnel where and immediate danger to life exists. Other damage to private property that does not affect public safety or mobility will be given a lower priority and may not warrant an emergency response at all.

We will provide you with information about available county, state and federal programs that may be available to you as needed.

If you need help developing a personal emergency plan, please let us know. We are ready willing and able to help you with your needs and we look forward to assisting you.