August 30, 2017–INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb has authorized the deployment of Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) support and resources for the Hurricane Harvey Relief efforts underway in Texas. Additionally, he has authorized Indiana’s National Guard to begin preparations to deploy Hoosier guardsmen and resources if needed.
“When another state is devastated by a natural disaster, Indiana is committed to providing resources to help response and recovery efforts,” Gov. Holcomb said. “We are ready when called to serve and respond. I pray for the safety of all the citizens, first responders and volunteers in the days and weeks to come.”
The Indiana National Guard has begun preparations and planning to mobilize personnel and resources as needed to support Hurricane Harvey efforts.
“Preparing to support civil authorities during a time of distress is what our soldiers and airmen train for,” said Maj. Gen. Courtney P. Carr, the Adjutant General of the Indiana National Guard. “If called, we are prepared to respond.”
Two DNR swift water rescue teams consisting of 28 total Indiana Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers and one administrative employee will be deployed. A support team consisting of six first responders from the IDHS District 4 Task Force will also be deployed. IDHS also will release 206,760 MREs from its inventory to support relief efforts.
The swift water rescue teams will conduct search and rescue operations, provide basic life support and medical care, transport stranded citizens to secondary rescue locations and support other urban and air search and rescue efforts.
IDHS District 4 is comprised of Benton, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Fountain, Montgomery, Tippecanoe, Warren and White counties.
“Indiana first responders and emergency management professionals frequently work with colleagues in other states to share resources and expertise,” said IDHS Director Bryan Langley. “We are ready to lend whatever help we can to assist the families affected by this disaster.”
IDHS manages emergency response policies, protocols and procedures among Indiana responders. Learn more about its efforts to keep Hoosiers and Americans safe at GetPrepared.in.gov.
