November 1, 2012

For Immediate Release

Governor Walker Update on Hurricane Sandy Response

Madison—Today, Governor Scott Walker praised Wisconsin utility and telecom companies deploying technicians and support staff to states in Hurricane Sandy’s area of impact, and he encouraged Wisconsin citizens to continue looking for ways to help the victims of the storm.  In addition, Governor Walker will increase trucking weight limits as needed for companies sending relief assistance materials to aid those on the east coast.

“It is heart wrenching to see the destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy,” said Governor Scott Walker.  “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims as they recover from this devastating storm, and we are proud of Wisconsinites and Wisconsin companies stepping up to help out their fellow Americans during this time of need.”

Many Wisconsin companies are taking part in mutual aid assistance programs through which roughly 700 technicians and support staff deployed or are deploying to impacted states.

For those who want to help, Governor Walker recommends visiting the webpages of the American Red Cross or Salvation Army to learn more.  The organizations can then purchase supplies such as food, water and other items to help those in need. 

Wisconsin businesses and trucking companies sending requested hurricane relief goods and equipment, such as generators, should work with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to ensure appropriate oversize-overweight permits are issued quickly.

In addition, Wisconsin Emergency Management reminds Wisconsin first responders to not self-deploy to the hurricane area.   Wisconsin is part of the national Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), which coordinates deployment in support of response and recovery efforts.  Impacted states are making requests through EMAC for various first responder resources and emergency management teams to ensure a coordinated response.

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