Tift Regional Health System recently received recognition from the National Weather Service forecast office in Tallahassee as a Storm Ready Supporter. Both the Tift Regional Medical Center and Cook Medical Center campuses were awarded the recognition.

The National Weather Service recognizes Storm Ready Supporters for “improving the timeliness and effectiveness of hazardous weather warnings to the public through a diligent and proactive approach of increased communication and preparedness.” According to the National Weather Service, to become Storm Ready, an organization must foster a relationship with the National Weather Service, develop redundant means to observe the weather, receive the latest warnings and forecasts, and transmit these warnings to those in danger.

“A lot of work happens behind the scenes to qualify as a Storm Ready supporter. Our weather preparation, training, and response plans were reviewed, as well as documentation which described how TRHS responds to actual events and weather threats,” stated Travis Arrington, Assistant Director of Facility Engineering and Safety Management for TRHS. “Our entire system has proven many times that we know how to react to weather events.”

There are currently 806 facilities nationwide who have received this recognition, and only 18 facilities in the state of Georgia have been recognized.