Emergency Plan - Grand Strand Water and Sewer Authority

EVENT SPECIFIC GUIDELINES 1
HURRICANE
(ESG-1)
Storm Watch: Indicates the stated weather condition (Tropical Storm or Hurricane) is
possible within the Watch area, usually within 36 hours.
Storm Warning: Indicates the stated weather condition (Tropical Storm or Hurricane) is
expected within the Warning area, usually within 24 hours.
3.1.4. CONCEPT of OPERATIONS
The Operating Condition (OPCON) Levels defined in Section 3.1.5 of the Basic Plan
have been applied to the likelihood and possible timing of a storm affecting our area.
Many times, GSWSA will typically follow Horry County as they move from one
OPCON to another. However, in some situations, GSWSA OPCON levels may vary.
The preparedness and response operations and activities defined in this hurricane plan
have been separated to coincide with the various OPCON levels outlined below.
Once activated, no employee or department shall Stand Down until that specific directive
has been given by appropriate Incident Command Staff.
3.1.4.1. Business Interruption
Beginning at OPCON 4 through a return to normal operations, Billing and
Collections Department should suspend issuance of non-payment meter pull work
orders.
Each storm’s intensity and anticipated time of landfall will have a direct impact on the
degree to which normal business operations are affected. The following general
guidelines are provided to aid the Incident Commander in making business interruption
decisions
Should a hurricane approach during normal business office hours, the following will
serve as guidance for staffing and the closing of the business office.
When the sustained wind speed reaches 35 mph and is expected to continue or
increase, staff not having emergency or critical facility operations
responsibilities may be released. Customer support staff may be retained to
continue providing limited customer support services and the phone system
would remain in normal operating mode.
When the sustained wind speed reaches 40 mph and is expected to continue or
increase, all employees not required to remain on duty as emergency personnel
or critical facility operators shall be released from duty. The Administrative
Office shall be closed and an office closing press release shall be forwarded to
the appropriate news agencies. The phone system shall be switched to forward
calls to the answering service.
Grand Strand Water & Sewer Authority 85 CONFIDENTIAL MATERIALS
Emergency Management Plan
SECURITY SENSITIVE
June 7, 2013
NOT FOR PUBLIC DISCLOSURE