The International District would like to remind everyone that Hurricane Season is upon us. We all need to be smart and plan ahead for all kinds of disasters: natural, manmade, technological and terrorist related. In Southeast Texas, however, the most likely disaster scenario is a Hurricane.

Here are a few things to do in preparation:

Before the Hurricane

  • Monitor local TV or AM 740 KTRH Radio for instructions
  • Check your supplies; especially water (5 gallons per person per day)
  • Fuel your vehicles and generators
  • Cover your windows with plywood
  • Bring in all outdoor furniture, toys, tools and other objects that could be missiles
  • Take pictures of property and contents for insurance purposes

Stock Emergency Supplies

(at least 72 hours worth)

  • First aid kit
  • NOAA Radio and batteries
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Extra eye glasses
  • Bottled water & Non perishable food
  • Clothing & Bedding
  • Sanitation (toilet paper & personal hygiene items)
  • Medications and copies of prescriptions
  • Cash as well as credit cards
  • Photo ID, important documents and records
  • Special products for babies, elderly and medically fragile family members

Don’t Forget Your Pets

Pet disaster kits should include: medications, first aid kits, sturdy leashes and collars, carriers to transport pets safely, current photos with owner or family members, food, potable water, litter/pan, muzzle, can opener, and toys.

Make a check list of necessary pre hurricane preparations and review with your family. Review it again when there is a storm in the Gulf of Mexico. Discuss evacuation plans with your family. Check Radio 740 and local television media for updates on zones being evacuated. Make sure your home insurance policy is current and remember that standard policies may not cover flooding and wind damage.

For more information check out the Harris County Office of Emergency Management web site.
Emergency Essentials Kit (HarrisReady.org)