Hurricane Season 2022: Preparedness & Planning

Its never recommended to wait until an emergency is occurring, to gather a plan of action. With hurricane season beginning tomorrow, June 1st, now is the time to plan for yourself, family, and pets. For the entire Gulf Coast Hurricane Preparedness 2022, pamphlet, go to:https://www.weather.gov/media/mob/pdf/GulfCoastHurricanePrep.pdf

Where to Get Up-to-Date Information on Weather Events:

NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) is the official voice of the National Weather Service. Watches, warnings, advisories, forecasts, current weather conditions and climate data are broadcasted frequently. NOAA Weather Radio is helpful anytime, however it is especially important to tune in when severe weather is occurring. During dangerous weather, normal broadcasts are interrupted and the focus shifts to local severe weather. 

Planning & Preparation:

Remember to review evacuation routes. Knowing how to leave quickly is important.

Tips for hurricane season home prep include consideration of mobile homes, landscaping, roofing, doors, and windows.

Mobile Homes:

• Check tie-downs for rust or breakage

Landscaping:

• Trim trees, shrubbery and dead limbs (especially near the home)
• Repair/Replace broken or damaged fencing
• Shredded bark is preferred for landscaping, instead of small gravel or stone bedding

Roofing:

• Have your roof inspected for loose tiles, shingles or debris. Consider replacing old or damaged shingles with new ones rated for hurricane force winds.
• Check and install hurricane clips to secure roof trusses to side walls
• Clear clogged rain gutters and downspouts

Roofing Recommendation for South Houston/Galveston: Stillwater Construction; (832)340-0838

Doors:

• Reinforce garage doors & tracks OR replace with a hurricane tested garage door
• Reinforce double entry doors & heavy duty foot & head bolts
• Use a security dead bolt with a 1 minimum bolt length
• Doors can be shuttered, but one entry must be left easily accessible

Windows:

• Install tested/manufactured hurricane shutters. Inspect existing shutters to ensure theyre in good condition.
• Alternative: Use 5/8 or greater exterior grade plywood secured by 2 1/2 screws or special clips. Obtain wood & fasteners; cut wood to size & label pieces; pre-drill holes; place anchors on home
• Store shutters or plywood lying flat to avoid warping when not in use

Emergency Supply Kit:

List of Emergency Supplies to Include:

• Water: at least 1 gallon per person for 3-7 days
• Food: enough for 3-7 days
  • Non-perishable packaged or canned food & juices
  • Food for infants & elderly
  • Snack foods
  • Cooking tools, fuel, non-electric opener
  • Paper plates, plastic utensils
• Blankets, Pillows, & Bedding, etc.
• Clothing:
  • Seasonal
  • Rainy Gear
  • Sturdy Shoes
• First Aid Kit, Medication, & Prescriptions
• Special Items (if needed) - for babies & elderly
• Toiletries & Hygiene Items
• Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags, & Plastic Ties for Personal Sanitation
• Items for Children (if needed):
  • Toys
  • Books
  • Games
• Tools: keep a set with you during the storm
• Pet Care Items:
  • Proper Identification & Immunization Records
  • Ample supply of food & water
  • Carrier or Cage
  • Muzzle & Leash
• NOAA Weather Radio: battery operated
• Flashlight & Batteries
• Keys
• Vehicle Fuel Tanks - filled
• Cell Phone: fully charged cell phone with extra battery pack, non-cordless telephone set
• Cash (small bills): banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods of time
• Credit Cards
• Important Documents: waterproof container or watertight re-sealable plastic bag
  • Insurance
  • Medical Records
  • Bank Account Numbers
  • Social Security Card

Pets:

Your plan should include ALL family members, including your pets! Here are a few suggestions from NOAA:

1. Take your pet with you when evacuating. You are the best person to care for your pet. If the situation is dangerous for you, then it is most likely dangerous for your pet.

2. Know where you can take your pet. Find hotels that are pet-friendly, or ones that will accept your pet during an emergency. Plan to go to a friend or relatives house, who will allow you to bring your pet.

3. Ensure your pet is used to a crate. Getting your pet into a crate for travel will be easier once your pet is used to it. Familiar surroundings can help to ease anxiety.

4. Make sure you pack your pets food, medications, have their vaccination records and pet insurance information (if you have a policy). Include these items with your disaster kit so you can quickly access them.

5. If you are unable to get home, prior to an approaching hurricane, your pet will be better off if youve made prior arrangements with a neighbor, friend, or relative, who can care for them. Temporary caretaker should have contact information for you & your vet. Additionally, you should include a signed authorization for veterinary care & financial limits for veterinary care.

6. Emergencies can cause pets to behave in unexpected ways. Well-behaved pets may become aggressive or defensive after major disruptions in their lives. Be cautious when letting your pet out after an emergency. Allow your pet plenty of time to rest and get used to their new surroundings. Provide familiar toys, if possible.

More resources at: www.ready.gov/pets

www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html