Last week the Valley was threatened by Tropical Storm Fernand, we sat down with Sociology and Disasters Studies Professor Dean Kyne for more information. He explained how he is teaching students to become proactive rather than reactive.
“How could you recover quickly without being prepared to face a disturbance?”
Kyne said there are four phases to disaster management. Mitigation, prepare, respond and recovery. Part of the approach includes having an evacuation plan and a supplies kit. The National Hurricane Center recommends the kit contains bottled water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit and a flashlight.
Electrical Engineering Freshman Felix Ramirez told us how he prepares.
“We actually have a plan and for when it happens. We have all the stuff in one little closet and we just take it out – if we need it or not.”
UTRGV has an emergency alert system to notify students about any campus-related disturbances. however, Kyne recommends individuals to take action and stay vigilant.
“Getting the information is also key. So, you yourself is responsible. So, please don’t wait until authorities inform you that you have to be vigilant.”
For more information on how to prepare for hurricane peak season visit nhc.noaa.gov.
Story by: Samantha Garza
