By james art 
Baton Rouge, Louisiana (WAFB) – Batton Ruzh Mayor Sid Edwards and other local employees have highlighted the success and lessons learned from winter meteorological phenomena from last week.
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“All the profits that come from this are incredible,” Edwards said.
Edwards says many of these victories are from the work done to keep our community warm and safe.
“We had 6 shelters here. We had 2 heating stations that provided heat and comfort to people during low temperatures. We have served over 400 people in the last week, which is an incredible achievement, “said Assistant Administrative Director Jeff Led.
Edwards says all the preparation for this week started on Sunday. After learning that there would be not enough space to help people get out of the cold in existing shelters, several council members intensified to help.
“They did everything. I would go to these shelters and there is a member of the Council, Daryl Hurst, who cooks a bambo saucepan, Carolyn Coleman at the back bakes the chicken. So they lived there, it just tells you the commitment to our citizens they have, “Edwards said.
Authorities say that the community has also played its role.
“No fire we have encountered so far is related to the improper use of heaters. So the citizens of this city listened to us and accepted the safety tips, and we appreciate it, “said Batton Ruzh Fire Chief Michael Kimble.
“I saw a lot of hands in the public who help each other, which is great,” said EMS director Michael Dennikola.
“33 600 pounds of salt and 84 yards of sand were used to protect priority routes. I want to thank the community above all; I want to start with them. People were exceptional. There were many questions about whether we were going to make a police hour or not, we didn’t have to do an hour. The grown -up people in Baton Rouge knew what to do and how to act, and they certainly passed as brilliant stars, “Edwards said.
Although it is worth celebrating the positives, Edwards says they have learned some lessons. He hopes that emergency preparation can happen faster the next time it is necessary. He also wants to find a different way to transport people looking for shelter. Although law enforcement agencies have helped to do so, Edwards says a police van can be scary to some.
“Maybe I can get the mysterious scoop of Scooby Du to tour Baton Rouge, and this can be more friendly to encourage more people,” Edwards said.
The big freezing was the first major test for the new Edwards administration, which is just a few weeks. Edwards says he is glad that she has happened and feels better prepared to take the next one.
“We know that on an unknown date at an unknown time there is another disaster, hurricane tornado, snow, whatever it may be, after we have done this running, we will be ready to cope even better next time,” Edwards said.
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