Andersen gets educated on typhoon season Published April 29, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Mariah Haddenham 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Typhoon season is quickly approaching and the 36th Civil Engineer Squadron Emergency Management Flight members have been doing their part to educate and prepare Team Andersen. The emergency management flight is scheduled to brief the base populace in May, and will also go door-to-door to ensure readiness of base residents. "Having Andersen prepared helps the base recover in a timely manner and ensures mission sustainability," said Tech. Sgt. Bruce Byrne, 36th CES NCO in charge of emergency management plans and operations. "Guam's location makes it pertinent that we brief and do our part to keep the base ready in the event of a typhoon." There are four tropical cyclone conditions of readiness codes to help Airmen stay prepared and aware of what to expect when a potentially dangerous storm is near. The tropical cyclone conditions of readiness levels go from TCCOR 1 to TCCOR 4, TCCOR 4 is the lowest level and means destructive winds could hit within 72 hours. June through December is designated as the Pacific typhoon season but, with Andersen's location on a tropical island in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, it's always susceptible to typhoons and tropical storms year-round. TCCOR 3 means destructive winds are probable within 48 hours and Airmen should secure outdoor items such as furniture to prevent further damage during a storm. TCCOR 2 means destructive winds are anticipated within 24 hours. At this time, everyone should make sure they've completed all prior steps in preparing for the storm and stay tuned to the TV and radio for updates. TCCOR 1 is the highest level and means destructive winds are expected within 12 hours. At this time, all non-mission essential operations will stop and Airmen and their families should take cover for the duration of the storm. Residents of Andersen are strongly encouraged to have a typhoon kit prepared so it may be available at a moment's notice. A properly stocked kit is recommended to include water, a first-aid kit, flashlight, cell phone, cash, personal medication, car maintenance kit, canned food and can opener, a propane stove, baby supplies, a battery-operated radio, towels and pet supplies. "Though many families are aware of typhoon season and the TCCOR levels, the most common mistake is the lack of a typhoon kit," said Airman 1st Class Jaime Barrientos, 36th CES emergency management planning and operations journeyman. "Having a properly prepared kit could make all the difference in the world." For more information on typhoon season and preparation tips, contact the emergency management flight at 366-3113.