Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery

2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference Before we proceed into the program, we must first address that age old question--what would happen if a school bus took a direct hit from tornado or hurricane force winds? First there is the lifting effect of the storm winds. Then we are witness to the storm’s destructive power. 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference

What are some of the lessons learned? Fuel supply and availability – are major factors toward recovery Optional communication methods are a necessity, not an option Too much outside interference can cause problems Importance of cost reporting and keeping accurate records 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference Service & Parts Managers Meeting, Orlando, FL

Fuel supply and availability are major factors toward recovery It is important to order your fuel early. This cannot be stressed enough. You should top off all tanks no later than the 72 hours out.  Make sure you keep your tanks full.  Ships will discontinue serving the ports about 48 hours from landfall of the storm.  Also vendors will be reluctant to deplete their own tank supplies since it could compromise the integrity of their fuel tanks.  Also keep in mind that after the storm every Governmental agency will want to purchase fuel from you if you have it.  Keep in mind that you do not want to deplete your inventory.  Keep a reserve of 2-3 days to operate your busses.  While it is admirable to share you do not want to end up without fuel when the time comes to start school. 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference

Optional communication methods are a necessity, not an option Have a communication plan. Do not expect that cellular service will be sufficient since most towers will be affected by the high winds.  800mhz radios have shown to be the most dependable form of communication following a storm.  Also establish a courier/runner with predetermined meeting places and times.  Establish standard times and schedules for drivers and technicians to report in following the storm. Establish predetermined locations because phones may not be available or reliable. Expect that when the storm is over you will have a certain percentage of employees that will not be able to return to work for various reasons such as damage to their homes and property.  Have a plan that either provides for substitutes or covering of runs. 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference

Too much outside interference can cause problems. How many buses do you need from outside sources? What types, capacities, and configurations? Do you need outside assistance with routing or route hazard identification? What parts do you need to repair buses? Do you need fueling capabilities that you do not have? Do you need assistance with labor to inspect and repair buses? If so, what kind of specific expertise do you need? Do you need more bus drivers? If so, how many? Will outside labor need lodging and can you arrange it? 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference Service & Parts Managers Meeting, Orlando, FL

Importance of cost reporting, keeping accurate records Ensure all staff have and are told to use time and effort logs that will be needed for FEMA reimbursement and are instructed in their use. 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference

Florida’s Department of Education’s (DOE) role in recovery efforts? Help districts assess their needs following the storm; Work with local districts to ensure students return to their classrooms as soon as they safely can; Offer assistance with parts procurement, bus availability, and additional workforce, if needed; Research potential statutes and rules that districts may need waivers from to promote accelerated return to service. (These requests are handled on a case-by-case basis.) 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference

What were our (DOE) goals relating to Emergency/Crisis Management? Assist those in need however possible. Study what methods worked and investigate those that did not. Disseminate the information learned to others through training and technical assistance. 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference

2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference Questions? Answers from an educated genius $1.50 Answers from related supervisory staff $2.50 Answers drawn from common sense $5.00 Answers from Bubba $Priceless$ 11/15/2018 2005 National Association of Pupil Transportation Conference