At its September meeting, the Winn Healthy Initiatives Coalition welcomed guest speaker, Rebeka Beaman, with the Office of Public Health and Emergency Preparedness, who shared practical steps for disaster prep and timely safety reminders about generator use as storm season approaches.

The presentation focused heavily on the state’s shelter system and how it activates during inland evacuations. Central to the discussion was the Alexandria MegaShelter, located at 8125 Hwy. 71 South near the LSU campus, which serves as the primary state-run site when large-scale support is required.

Built after Hurricane Katrina to provide safe, large-scale evacuation space, the 200,000-square-foot facility can accommodate approximately 2,000 individuals. Today, it plays a critical role in disaster response, housing evacuees, supporting people with medical needs, and, when necessary, providing shelter for pets.

Coalition members also received seasonal reminders on generator safety, emphasizing:

• Preventing carbon monoxide poisoning

• Avoiding back-feeding into home electrical systems

• Keeping equipment dry and well-maintained

The speaker stressed that these precautions can significantly reduce injuries that too often occur after major storms.

LDH supports shelter operations, especially Medical Special Needs Shelters (MSNS) and Critical Transportation Needs Shelters (CTNS), which are managed by the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

For the latest shelter information during emergencies, residents are encouraged to call 2-1-1 or text LASHELTER to 898-211.