In a remarkable display of teamwork and preparedness, Elizabeth City State University’s Emergency Management team swiftly established a shelter in response to a power outage affecting multiple dormitories and buildings on campus. A transformer failure earlier in the week at the Central Utility Plant triggered the incident and disrupted essential services such as air conditioning and hot water.
The ECSU Community Emergency Response Team made significant progress in 40 minutes thanks to effective student collaboration. The recently set up shelter was located at the K.E. White Graduate Center. It was prepared with 200 beds provided by the Red Cross and other emergency essentials to support the affected students.
Applying Training to Set Up The Shelter
Students trained in ECSU’s emergency management program quickly mobilized to assist in setting up and organizing the shelter.
Charli Brooks, the logistics chief for student CERT, spearheaded a dedicated group of volunteers who responded to the emergency with determination. Students marked their efforts with smiles and a sense of “Viking pride” as they worked to create a supportive environment for their peers.
“This is what our CERT does in many different ways. They help their communities and bring fun with them,” said Kevin Kupietz, chair and assistant professor of ECSU’s emergency management department.
In addition to the shelter, the Division of Student Affairs at ECSU organized a “Beat the Heat” social to further alleviate the stress caused by the outage. This initiative offered students snacks and transportation options for those residing in Viking Village and Bias Hall. Study spaces were also available in the K.E. White Graduate Center and the G. R. Little Library.
“I say it all the time: we have the best students,” expressed Kupietz, emphasizing the resilience and dedication displayed by the ECSU student body during this challenging time.
Essentially, the CERT program educates and trains volunteers in disaster preparedness skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.
