It's Hurricane Season... Are You Prepared?

www.davidthelocator.com It is hard to believe, but the 2014 Hurricane Season is already upon us.  If there’s one lesson that we on the Texas Gulf Coast have learned repeatedly, it is the importance of early and thorough preparation. I want all of our families to appreciate the importance of hurricane preparation and to have the information they need to be ready for this hurricane season.   Here are five tips from NOAA’s National Hurricane Center on how to best prepare and survive a hurricane: 1. Know the difference between hurricane and tropical storm “watches” and “warnings.” A hurricane watch is a notification for residents to be on alert of a potential storm. Areas that are reported to have a storm warning are required to take immediate actions against safeguarding life. 2. Keep emergency contact information handy. Phones numbers for local emergency management officers, local law enforcement, hospitals, utility service providers and insurance information are recommended to be kept nearby during storms.  3. Pack emergency kits ahead of time. Packing essential items such as bottled water, snacks and canned foods are useful and at times, life-saving after storms frequently cause homes to lose gas and electricity. Items such as batteries for hand radios and flashlights are also helpful and difficult to find following hurricanes and tropical storms. 4. Prepare an emergency evacuation plan. Create a plan regarding where you can stay and temporary housing locations for your animals prior to a storm warning. In the event of an evacuation, follow FEMA’s Evacuation guidelines. 5. Stay alert in case of other natural disasters. The passing of the hurricane eye is not the end of a storm. NOAA warns that tornadoes, high winds and the possibility of a hurricane changing its course makes it important to remain alert following a storm. Tips For Hurricane Preparation: Before a hurricane - Board up windows - Set freezer & refrigerator to coldest setting to make food last as long as possible without electricity. - Fill bathtub with water for cleaning & flushing toilets. Don't leave small children unattended near full tub - Bring in all loose objects from the backyard. - Charge your cellphone & buy a car charger. - Program emergency contacts into phone. After a hurricane - Remove wet carpets, padding, mattresses & upholstered furniture. Ventilate with fans & air conditioning - not windows, air encourages mold. - Disinfect floors w/solution of 1 part bleach/10 parts water. - Sagging ceilings could be water. Poke holes in side of the sag to release the water. - If you suspect sewer or waterline damage, don't use toilets or drink tap water. Call a plumber. - If your home has been flooded, have your electricity checked before attempting to turn it back on. - If you smell gas or hear hissing, open a window and leave. Call the gas company. Protect documents Store important documents in clear, air-proof and waterproof containers that you can take with you. Develop a plan for communication - Establish a place to meet near home. - Select a friend or relative who lives outside the region to be your contact. - Take a cellphone charger when you evacuate. Prepare your pantry Stock up now to avoid last-minute panic shopping. Plan for one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. Purchase canned food for at least three days. Don't forget a hand-held can opener. *Courtesy Houston Chronicle