FEMA training gives pastor head start on flood preparedness

WAITSBURG-As area residents start to monitor the river every morning on the way to work, Pastor Cameron Hedges has been busy preparing for his first flood season in Washington.

Hedges has been going through various FEMA training. He is learning how to prepare for and navigate a natural disaster, document volunteer efforts, and communicate with other response divisions.

The pastor of the Waitsburg Christian Church, Hedges, said that there was no hesitation to say "yes" when the City of Waitsburg asked if the building could be used as an emergency shelter, as it had during the 2020 flood.

One training, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that affect the area where they live. The program trains individuals in basic disaster response skills, including light search and rescue, team organization, and fire safety.

"I have been learning so many acronyms," Hedges laughed. "CERT, NIMS, ICS, just a few!"

The training will allow Hedges to be more efficient about collecting and organizing supplies, directing volunteer groups, and overall preparation at the church itself.

Hedges said that the training is available online, and he encourages everyone to go through it. Each class takes roughly two hours and requires a small exam in order to pass. Training information can be found online at https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness/training, or by emailing Councilmember Jillian Henze at jillianhenze@cityofwaitsburg.com

Using the knowledge from training and guidance from local officials, Hedges said that the Waitsburg Christian Church is hosting a flood supply drive to be ready if the town experiences a flooding event. Items collected include safety goggles, reflector vests, basic first aid kits, work gloves, walkie-talkies, and hard hats. The list will grow as areas of need are identified.

Community members have already started donating items, and Hedges expressed that the church and the city are both very grateful. Items can be dropped off at the church, 604 Main Street on Sundays, or by contacting Hedges at pastorcamwwcc@outlook.com.

Monetary donations to help purchase items or help feed and house those affected by the disaster are always accepted.