What would you do if a disaster struck and everyday services disappeared? Find out by attending the upcoming Post Disaster Response Simulation on Thursday, June 18 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Manteo First Assembly’s Connect Center.
The simulation, free and open to the public, is being hosted by the Dare County Department of Health & Human Services (DCDHHS), Dare County Emergency Management and Trillium Health. With the Atlantic hurricane season upon us, this simulation is sure to prove to be invaluable to all who participate.
During the event, attendees will discover what it’s like in the weeks after a disaster as well as the many barriers people face. Participants will be assigned various roles that simulate real-life situations to navigate.
For example, participants may be assigned to be someone whose home was severely damaged and needs to work with their homeowners insurance; caring for an aging parent and needs to fill that parent’s prescriptions or access money from a bank; or has discovered mold in their flooded home and needs to relocate.
“No matter your experience level, we can all benefit from sharpening our preparedness skills — and this simulation makes learning both practical and fun,” said DCDHHS Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Greta Sharp.
The simulation, which builds preparedness skills and increases empathy for people affected by emergencies, has been held in other counties throughout North Carolina with very positive results. It also highlights the added struggles for individuals living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and/or substance use disorders.
The experience will benefit both individuals and organizations, said Dare County Social Services Division Director Chuck Lycett. “The post disaster simulation gives individuals the opportunity to learn and understand the daily struggles one may face following a disaster. For organizations who provide resources, it gives them the opportunity to evaluate their level of customer service and ask ‘Are we creating more barriers for our citizens?’”
Manteo First Assembly Church Connect Center is located at 812 Wingina Ave., across from Firetender Restaurant and beside the Dare Haven Motel. Registration and a light breakfast begin at 8:30 a.m. The simulation is open to all adults and high school-aged students.
Registration prior to the event is required and there is limited space, so don’t wait to sign up and invite a friend to register as well. To register, go to https://registration.socio.events/e/darepds. For more information, call Greta Sharp at 252.475.5073.
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