Center helps when disasters strike Published Aug. 10, 2004 RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFPN) -- As the busiest time of the 2004 hurricane season begins; Air Force Personnel Center officials here are reminding Airmen that the personnel readiness center can assist them when natural disasters strike. When people evacuate or communication is impaired, the readiness center staff acts as a central point of contact. They pass on information from an installation's commander to his or her people, even as they evacuate with their families and may be separated from their units. The readiness center coordinates an Air Force response to emergencies and natural disasters, and the staff begins 24-hour operations during crisis situations. "Evacuated members are encouraged to contact us and provide their safe-haven address, phone, etc...," said Master Sgt. Eric Barnes, noncommissioned officer in charge of the deployed operations section at the personnel center. "We are then able to give the members any update we have about their home station -- information such as hurricane conditions, evacuation status and instructions regarding their return to duty."To help account for Airmen, the readiness center staff creates database files for all people assigned to an installation threatened by a natural disaster. The staff updates the data with the Airman's location, emergency number and other pertinent information whenever he or she calls in. In emergencies, Airmen can reach the readiness center toll free at (800) 435-9941, DSN 665-2020 or commercial (210) 565-2020. (Courtesy of AFPC News Service)