EMS prepares for Earl

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va (WAVY) - The Virginia Beach Department of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is monitoring and preparing for Hurricane Earl by taking inventory of supplies and dusting off its second and third lines of equipment.

Division Chief Bruce Nedelka told WAVY.com they are now in 'condition level two,' which means they're preparing equipment and staff.

EMS learned from Hurricane Katrina that first responders can't give their all at work when they're worried about what's happening at home. If Hurricane Earl comes through, EMS is prepared to transform one large room at its training center into a communication center. From there, senior staff will coordinate crews in the field.

Internet access will allow face-to-face conference calls with the 911 center, and city and state leaders who can request aid.

Nedelka said it all looks very organized, but there is no guarantee help will be able to get to you after a certain point, "After a level of 50-mile an hour sustained winds, the decision can be made to no longer respond resources in because of the danger to the equipment and the personnel that would have to respond," said Nedelka.

Officials said it's important to heed an evacuation order, and stock up on medical supplies and food.

If streets flood, EMS does have access to a few boats, they advise people to be self sufficient - that is, to have enough supplies to get through at least three days.