|
|
Be prepared — Readiness is vital
Things to do NOW for Hurricane Season!
- Review insurance coverage. Secure flood insurance if appropriate.
- Know all evacuation routes if you live near the Gulf.
- Assemble a hurricane kit. (Try an easy four-week plan to put one together now.)
- People with disabilities or transportation needs who will need help in an evacuation should register with 211.
- Make arrangements for pets.
When a warning is issued
- Obtain cash in small bills (Banks and ATMs may not be open or available after the storm.)
- Protect windows with plywood or storm shutters.
- Secure outside objects.
- Fill all vehicle fuel tanks.
- Review hurricane kit to be sure contents will last several days for each family member.
- Prepare a secure room, away from windows in the center of the building.
- Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for your pets to be cared for.
- People with disabilities or transportation needs who will need help in an evacuation should register with 211.
- If called to evacuate, do so according to your area's phase.
Before the storm
- Be ready to put your plans and preparations into action.
- Monitor weather reports on NewsRadio 740 KTRH, KPRC Local 2 News or this Web site.
- Move your hurricane kit (supplies of food, water, necessary tools and first-aid items) to secure room.
- Place important documents in a resealable watertight plastic bag and keep it with you. Include insurance policies, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security cards, passports, etc.
- Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (bicycles, lawn furniture).
- Close windows, doors and hurricane shutters. If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood.
- Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
- Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
- Fill your car’s gas tank.
- Talk with members of your household and review your evacuation plan. Planning and practicing your evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.
- Evacuate if advised by authorities according to your area's phase.
During the storm
- Stay in secure room, away from windows.
- Do not use the phone or candles.
- Monitor weather and civil service bulletins on NewsRadio 740 KTRH, KPRC Local 2 News or NOAA radio.
- Have your hurricane kit on hand.
- Remain indoors when a hurricane's eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly.
After the storm
- Continue listening to NewsRadio 740 KTRH, KPRC Local 2 News or NOAA radio for the latest updates.
- Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.
- If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
- Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
- Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.
- Stay out of any building that has water around it.
- Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
- Use flashlights in the dark. Do NOT use candles.
- Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are sure it’s not contaminated.
- Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out.
- Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.
- Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control.
- Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
- Print THIS PAGE now (you may not have electricity later) and keep it handy as a reference.
Important Information
Weather Links
Galveston Radar (NWS)
National Weather Service Tropical Bulletins
Weather Channel Hurricane Central
Latest Houston Metro Forecast (NWS)
National Weather Service - Houston/Galveston
National Hurricane Center
Storm Track, Strike Probabilities, Wind Projections (NWS)
Lightning Reports (Texas A&M)
The "Cone of Probability"
Saffir/Simpson Hurricane Scale (NHC)
2010 Hurricane Names
Galveston Webcams (Galveston.com)
|
|
