SUN n FUN Is StormReady

Lakeland, FL - Recognizing the need for guidelines dealing with weather operations, the National Weather Service designed the StormReady program to help cities, counties, towns and events implement procedures to reduce the potential for disastrous weather-related consequences.

SUN 'n FUN, with the requirement to provide its guests with the safest possible aviation event, has achieved the prestigious recognition of StormReady.  A ceremony will be held on February 16, 2012, to receive the certificate and celebrate the achievement.  City officials, SUN 'n FUN and Florida Air Museum Board members and staff are anticipated.

Through StormReady, NOAA's National Weather Service gives communities and event organizers the skills and education needed to survive severe weather-before and during the event.  StormReady helps emergency managers strengthen their local hazardous weather operations.

Working with StormReady guidelines, the SUN 'n FUN Severe Weather Team has formulated a plan to ensure our guests that we are StormReady.

Steps have been taken to facilitate the StormReady process with the following identifications:

• Three locations for the NOAA Weather Radios;
• Safe Shelter Areas for each geographic area of the event grounds to comply with SUN 'n FUN's "Tornado and High Wind Safety Zone Designation;"
• Alternative methods of receiving National Weather Service warnings including local TV and radio; internet weather sources;
• Methods for alerting staff, guests and participants, with areas of exception taken into account, as well as alternative means for alerting staff, guests, and participants if electricity is off;
• Methods to provide special assistance to handicapped staff and participants;
• Pre-planned announcements for the SNF announcer, radio station and Safety Officers to avoid confusion and misunderstanding; and
• Processes to notify all concerned as the weather conditions and/or emergency have passed.
  
  

In a continuing effort to ensure safety and preparedness and maintain diligence at all times, SUN 'n FUN performs a tabletop drill in November, as well as a physical on-site drill in February each year to familiarize staff and volunteers with the StormReady process.  Volunteer meetings will include announcements of emergency preparedness planning.

SUN 'n FUN staff and volunteers pledge to make our event the safest possible.  Look for the StormReady site designation signs next time you enter the SUN 'n FUN campus. - Sun 'N Fun