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Governor Riley Declares
State of Emergency, Price Gouging Law Goes Into Effect
MONTGOMERY – Governor Bob Riley on Friday afternoon declared
a state of emergency for Alabama after he received new
information from the U.S. Department of Energy that energy
shortages will likely occur in the state due to Hurricane
Ike.
The Governor’s declaration notes that “disruption of
essential utility services, systems and severe energy
shortages will likely occur.”
Earlier in the day, the Governor’s Office noted that an
Alabama governor’s ability to declare a state of emergency
was very limited. By law, an Alabama governor cannot declare
a state of emergency unless there has been or there is
anticipated to be an attack on the United States, a natural
disaster of major proportions impacting Alabama or a public
health emergency.
“I believe this new information means a threat to public
health is a strong possibility due to the shortage of
fuels,” said Governor Riley. “I deem it an emergency.”
The state law that prohibits “unconscionable pricing” of
items for sale or rent goes into effect when the governor
has declared a state of emergency.
Hurricane and Tropical Storm
Information Links
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Before a
Hurricane Strikes:
Plan a safe evacuation route and identify safe
shelter space within your area. Those in storm surge
zones, flood zones, or in less than standard housing
should be especially vigilant in preparing disaster
plans.
Have disaster supplies on hand, including:
- Flashlight,
portable battery-operated radio and extra
batteries
- First-aid kit
- Emergency food
and water (including a non-electric can opener)
- Essential
medicines
- Cash and credit
cards
- Sturdy shoes and
a change of clothing
- Copies of
important papers (bank statements, insurance
records, deeds, etc.)
When a Hurricane Watch or Warning is
Issued:
-
Listen to hurricane progress reports. Follow
instructions if ordered to evacuate
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Check your emergency supplies. Store drinking
water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles and
available cooking pots.
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Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture,
toys and garden tools; anchor objects that
cannot be brought inside but that could be
wind-tossed.
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Secure your home by installing hurricane
shutters or precut plywood.
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Trim dead branches from trees.
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Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest
settings if not instructed by officials to turn
off utilities.
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Fuel your car. Review evacuation routes and
gather your disaster supply kit.
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Store valuables and personal papers in a
waterproof container.
Review your family
disaster plan.
If You Are
Told To Evacuate:
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If officials order evacuation, leave as soon as
possible.
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Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out
bridges.
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Secure your home. Unplug appliances and turn off
electricity and the main water valve. If time
permits, elevate furniture to protect it from
flooding or move it to a higher floor.
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Take your pre-assembled emergency supplies and
warm, protective clothing.
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Related
Links
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Department of Homeland Security 