LAPLACE — In preparation for the upcoming hurricane season, Public Safety, Fire Services and Communications officials attended the 2015 Region 3 Hurricane Coordination Meeting hosted by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP).

The annual meeting is a collaboration between state and local emergency officials to discuss plans in advance of hurricane season.

Local emergency planners shared transportation, communication, evacuation, and sheltering plans with state partners, as well as assistance needed during an event.

Participating agencies included, GOHSEP led by Director Kevin Davis, Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Louisiana State Police, Acadian Ambulance, American Red Cross, FEMA, US Corps of Engineers and St. John, St. Charles, St. James, Assumption, Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes.

“Hurricane season planning meetings allow Parish officials to foster strong relationships with our state counterparts so we are familiar with each other in the event of an emergency,” said Jobe Boucvalt, Public Safety Director.

“In addition, it is always helpful to hear from our neighboring Parishes and maintain open communications throughout our region,” he added.

The Office of Emergency Preparedness and Communications Department continue to work closely with GOHSEP, as well as other local and state agencies to ensure the parish is ready for hurricane season.

As June 1st approaches, St. John residents are urged to finalize emergency plans and emergency supply kits, as well as familiarize themselves with evacuation routes for the 2015 season.

“These meetings allow the state to finalize plans with our local partners,” said GOHSEP Director Kevin Davis.

“We all know the importance of a coordinated response when facing the threat of a tropical system. The time to develop these plans is before hurricane season starts.”