Columbus, Ohio – Ohio is once again showing its humanity and offering help to those who are most in need.
After providing armored personnel carriers a few months ago to Ukraine, Ohio is now among the states providing help in the natural disaster that hit Kentucky, where several people died and a number have been reported missing following the flooding that covered a number of roads and homes with water.
16 members of the water rescue team from Ohio Task Force 1, with five vehicles and two boats, will be sent on a rescue mission to Hazard, Ky.
According to the task force leader and lieutenant with the Columbus Division of Fire, Jim O’Connor, “We’re going to be able to perform rescues and help them search the flooded areas for any victims. We are working in support of the local authorities. Our mission will be guided by what their needs are and how we can assist them.”
After heavy overnight rains that in some parts of eastern Kentucky reached over 9 inches, Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky said that the death toll from the flooding is likely to approach double figures.
At least eight people have lost their lives in the flooding, and the rains have caused severe damage to homes in the area.
Task Force Public Information Officer Phil Sinewe said on social media, “While OH-TF1 is proud to service the entire country, the citizens of Ohio should be extra proud to assist neighbors so close to home.”
The task force is self-sufficient for up to 72 hours, and beyond that, with the help of resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, it is capable of being deployed for a total of two weeks.
When asked about how long water rescue team members will be in Kentucky, O’Connor said that the duration of their stay depends on how long Kentucky will need their help.
Anyone who is interested in donating to the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund may do so by visiting this link.
Leave a Reply