As the hurricane season intensifies, residents must face the potential dangers posed by such severe weather events. Readiness can significantly alleviate the stress that arises during these challenging times. Brian Mason, the director of Houston’s Office of Emergency Management, underscores the importance of preparedness.
Don’t be complacent, take preparedness seriously, spend the time now to do the little things that will make a big difference for you and your loved ones when something does happen, Mason advised.
Home Preparation Strategies
To safeguard homes, it is essential to secure outdoor elements like patio furniture and barbecue grills, which can turn into dangerous projectiles during high winds. Shawn Schulze from the American Red Cross urges residents to board up windows and store important documents in waterproof cases to facilitate quick evacuations.
Every family should have an emergency kit with supplies to meet its basic needs, Mason emphasized. The kit should contain at least one gallon of water per person per day and enough non-perishable food to last a week, along with flashlights, batteries, radii, and necessary medications.
Planning for Evacuations
In the event of a storm, residents are advised to create a detailed evacuation plan, including familiarizing themselves with evacuation routes and considering alternate paths. Keeping vehicles fueled, particularly electric vehicles with accessible charging stations, is vital.
Officials encourage families to plan for entertainment during potential lockdowns due to power outages, especially for children. Preparing now enhances safety, reduces anxiety, and fosters a culture of proactive preparedness within communities.
Ultimately, effective hurricane preparation involves both practical steps and mental readiness. As Schulze noted, having a contingency plan and ensuring loved ones are informed alleviates fears, enabling families to confidently face whatever challenges arise during hurricane season.
