[Agency Name]—As hurricane season progresses, families **are increasingly advised** to implement safety protocols that could mitigate the unpredictable consequences of powerful storms. According to experts, taking action before a hurricane strikes can significantly reduce the associated stress and ensure a safer experience during a storm.
Emergency management officials stress the importance of creating a robust preparedness plan that includes assembling an emergency kit filled with essential supplies and deciding whether to stay put or evacuate where necessary. Brian Mason, director of Houston’s Office of Emergency Management, emphasizes that preparation should start well in advance: “Don’t be complacent, take preparedness seriously” he stated.
Essential Home Preparation Steps
To diminish property damage during a storm, homeowners **should** secure outdoor items such as furniture or grills that could become hazardous debris. Shawn Schulze of the American Red Cross recommends boarding your windows and safeguarding essential documents inside waterproof containers.
To further decrease potential damage, Mason suggests making necessary home repairs, including roof inspections pre-season, and ensuring transportation utilities are accessible in cases of extreme weather effects.
Create an Emergency Kit
Families should compile an emergency kit comprising at least one gallon of water and sufficient non-perishable food for each person for up to seven days. Additional supplies might include flashlights, batteries, medications, and necessary items for pets. A well-prepared kit helps ensure that families can be self-sufficient for an extended period.
Moreover, parents are encouraged to include entertainment options to keep kids occupied during possible power outages—games, books, or coloring materials could be invaluable during such times.
Develop an Evacuation Strategy
For those opting to evacuate, developing an evacuation route is vital. People should be aware of preferred and backup routes to avoid traffic congestion as a storm approaches.
Fuel Up and Plan Ahead
Officials recommend ensuring vehicles are fueled before a storm hits. For electric vehicle drivers, confirming charging station availability along potential routes is crucial.
Schulze reiterates that having a preparedness plan and communicating this to family members alleviates fear and anxiety associated with natural disasters. “Prepare for the worst, and you'll be ready for anything that comes your way,” she advised.
As the hurricane season unfolds, these preparations can make all the difference in keeping families safe and secure.
