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Storm Preparedness Press Conference

By frhayes | February 13, 2009

On Friday, February 13, 2009 a News Conference with Mayor Foster, and representatives from Public Works, and the Fire and Police Departments was held at the Long Beach Emergency Communications Operations Center (ECOC). The purpose of this meeting was to inform residents of resources available citywide to protect their property, and how they can prepare for the severe rain storms that are projected to hit the area this weekend.

Mayor Bob Foster emphasized the need to prepare for the powerful storm that is projected to impact the Long Beach area starting on Saturday and continuing throughout the first part of next week. He pointed out that we are a “sea level” city at the base of two rivers and a flood control system that literally funnels tons of regional rainwater during storms. Since multiple areas in the city are prone to flooding, emphasis was also placed on taking advantage of the sand and sand bag distribution program provided in the city.

Assistant Chief Cady provided specific information on the sand bag program, including the fact that every fire station is a distribution center for up to Ten (10) sand bags for each resident of the city who visits their local station. He also gave the specific addresses of the four (4) fire stations where residents can go to fill their own sand bags. Information was also provided on the two locations available for the mobility impaired or seniors who can receive bags that are already filled with sand. The Long Beach Fire Departments (LBFD) capabilities were also discussed, including our deployment of swift water rescue teams. The dangers of high water areas, and fast moving water (flood control channels), was also pointed out to educate the public to stay away from these areas.

The Police Department cautioned the community to slow down and drive carefully, and to exercise a great deal of patience, and allow yourself plenty of time to get where you are going. They stated that they would make constant patrols of the flood control channels, and any other areas that could possibly become dangerous areas.

Public works reassured the media that they had taken as many pro-active steps as possible to attempt to prevent any severe flooding incidents throughout the city. All participants at the news conference pledged their support for all departments and agencies within the city to do the best possible job to protect the interests of the citizens of Long Beach.

Channel 2, 4, 7, Press Telegram, KFBW, Univision, and Telemundo news agencies were all in attendance, check times and listings to view portions of this news conference. The Press Telegram will cover this story in tomorrow’s edition.

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