Grocers: Is Your Store Prepared?
The Carolinas Food Industry Council has established relationships with a number of key agencies in both states. These include the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM), and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD). Because of these relationships, CFIC can provide members with real-time information during natural or man-made disasters and facilitate partnerships for relief and recovery efforts.
When a disaster or emergency strikes, a state may activate their Emergency Operations Center (EOC). During an activation, CFIC has a seat in the EOC. This physical presence in the EOC puts CFIC staff in close touch with representatives from utility companies, transportation officials, law enforcement, and other experts. As a result, CFIC can troubleshoot members’ problems in a timely manner.
This seat in the EOC also means that members receive timely and pertinent information specific to the retail grocery industry before, during, and after a disaster. As an example, CFIC’s communications include:
- Weather impacts
- Statewide Emergency Declarations
- Price gouging laws
- Local alcohol sales prohibitions
- Curfews
- Emergency Reentry Passes
- Boil Water Advisories
- Disaster SNAP, hot foods waivers, SNAP replacement benefits
- Road closures and re-routing assistance
- Power outages
CFIC sends detailed emails during emergencies for easy sharing with colleagues. In addition, CFIC members can sign up for text alerts to get topline information quickly.
For more information on CFIC’s emergency management program, contact Lindsey Kueffner.