special report

HELPS Is on the Way
A comprehensive consumer-oriented hurricane preparedness event is scheduled for this summer.

This June, a major event launches to promote hurricane preparedness. The inaugural HELPS—Hurricane Exhibition for Learning, Preparation and Safety—takes place June 24 to 26 at the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL. Hurricane Protection magazine is a major supporter of this new venture with Reed Exhibitions, one of the world’s largest organizers of trade shows.

Reed Senior Vice President Rick Still explains the creation and timing of HELPS is the result of 2004’s very active hurricane season. “Last year the threat of damage from hurricanes became a brutal reality for millions,” Still says. “All of a sudden, it was no longer just a threat . . . as a result, public awareness is at the highest level ever and virtually all meteorological models indicate another difficult season this year.”

HP: With concern at such a high level, aren’t people motivated to find solutions and to make their own preparations?
Rick Still: The motivation is there, but there are challenges. When you go to the Internet, you’re inundated with information . . . and when you find someone to help, most vendors and repair services are too busy to even consider new business.

HP: So the demand is there but consumers still are not sure what to do or where to turn?
Still: Exactly. Everyone we speak to has his own personal story of damage sustained last year, and when we ask about the level of interest in an exhibition and seminars on ways to be prepared, the interest is huge. The stakes are so high and the amount of preparation options so varied, everyone is unsure of where to begin.

HP: What about the demand for services and repairs? We understand that many dealers are not able to cope with the amount of business.
Still: This is the single greatest concern. Two years ago, hurricane preparation and protection companies faced hard times. Last summer changed that and now, most companies can’t even think about taking on more work. This defines a tremendous need: If the trade can help educate the public about things they can do, or about services that are available now, everyone wins.

HP: There seems to be quite a few exhibitions for consumers; why do we need another one?
Still: Hurricane preparation is a problem that deserves all the attention we can give it. Yes, there are several small, local programs to help educate the consumer, and these serve a specific need. What we are proposing is a comprehensive event, held in a large, accessible facility that provides the convenience of one-stop shopping.

HP: This event is strictly for consumers?
Still: Yes, and we are also finding that there is a great need among commercial property managers and other business owners for this information. Friday, June 24, will focus on the things businesses need to do to prepare.

HP: Orlando is a great location for this inaugural event.
Still: True . . . and we are receiving great support to make this a major public/private sector effort. Admission will be free. Parking is free. Support has been pledged from the county government, including the Office of Emergency Management. The Orlando mayor will announce HELPS in his upcoming state-of-the-county address.