By Congressman Pete Olson 22nd Senate District
Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON D.C. It is hard to believe but Hurricane Season 2013 is already upon us. If theres one lesson that we on the Texas Gulf Coast have learned repeatedly it is the importance of early and thorough preparation. I want all of our families to appreciate the importance of hurricane preparation and to have the information they need to be ready for this hurricane season.
Here are five tips from NOAAs National Hurricane Center on how to best prepare and survive a hurricane:
1. Know the difference between hurricane and tropical storm watches and warnings. Areas reported to be on *hurricane watch link 1* is a notification for residents to be on alert of a potential storm. Areas that are reported to have a storm warning are required to take immediate actions against safeguarding life.
2. Keep emergency contact information handy. *Phones numbers link 2* for local emergency management officers local law enforcement hospitals utility service providers and insurance information are recommended to be kept nearby during storms.
3. Pack emergency kits ahead of time. Packing essential items such as bottled water snacks and canned foods are useful and at times life-saving after storms frequently cause homes to lose gas and electricity. Items such as batteries for hand radios and flashlights are also helpful and difficult to find following hurricanes and tropical storms.
4. Prepare an emergency evacuation plan. Create a plan regarding where you can stay and temporary housing locations for your animals prior to a storm warning. In the event of an evacuation follow *FEMAs Evacuation guidelines link 3*.
5. Stay alert in case of other natural disasters. While many believe the passing of the hurricane eye is the end of a storm NOAA warns that tornadoes high winds and the possibility of a hurricane changing its course makes it important to remain alert following a storm.
*NOAA link 4* announced Friday that this hurricane season is expected to be especially active. According to the report there is an estimated 70 chance of up to 20 severe storms occurring over the next six months.
Additionally in the event of a hurricane my office stands ready to help. Should the need arise for assistance please feel free to contact one of my Texas offices or my Washington office. Be safe and be prepared.
Pete Olson
