The activities of the Auxiliary, just like the Coast Guard, are a year-round responsibility. With the winter season behind us, we must now prepare for the hurricane season.
Effective June 1, we move to Condition Four readiness status. This is a seasonal condition that is set automatically between June 1 and November 30. This condition upgrade triggers a set of preparedness activities. Vessels are to be made ready with equipment and fuel levels maintained at 70% full.
We must review our Hurricane Disaster Plan with all members who will be residing in our AOR throughout the year. This will be reviewed at the next general membership meeting.
Last and most important to our members is the call tree list. This year we are required to account for all members residing in our AOR and members of their household. We will run a test of the call tree list this month to determine the number of occupants in each home. You will need to answer the call within 24 hours and state how many people live with you.
Except for our snowbirds, we are required to leave periodic messages until you respond. However, we need to know which members will be away for the summer. Those who will be gone should notify us with their departure and return dates. You can contact me at daveshuster1@mac.com.
We may also experience a test of the Everbridge Notification System. This is an automated system used within the District. It was implemented two years ago but shelved after problems with initial tests. Those have apparently been resolved and the system has been reactivated. It is my understanding that notification via the Everbridge system will come in the form of a phone call and an email message. Instructions in the message will tell you how to respond.
Therefore, you may have two different test notifications this month: a call through our call tree and notification through the Everbridge system. The Coast Guard requires a test of both methods.
I want to thank all of our snowbird members for their support and participation this season. You are an important part of our flotilla and we will miss you during your absence. I hope you have a nice summer and look forward to seeing you this fall.
We are Semper Paratus.
