BBB on Homes: Residents should be hurricane ready
June marks the beginning of hurricane season for Gulf Coast residents, and, unfortunately, the greater Houston area already has experienced devastating floods throughout the spring and early summer. Storm hazards come in many forms, including storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, high winds, tornadoes and rip currents. Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas urges Gulf Coast residents to prepare for the unexpected and devise their own emergency-preparedness plans. It’s important to assess and prepare. There are two things every family should do to get ready for any kind of disaster:
Make a plan. Discuss with family and friends how you’ll contact each other, where you’ll meet if you can’t go home and what you’ll do in specific situations such as a tornado or fire.
Prepare an emergency kit. If disaster strikes your community, you might not have access to food, water or electricity. A basic emergency supply kit could include the following items:
One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation; At least a three-day supply of nonperishable food; Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both; Flashlight and extra batteries; First aid kit; Whistle to signal for help; Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place;
Moistened wipes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation; Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities; Manual can opener for food; Local maps, including the location of area shelters; and Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger. Families also may want to consider including such items as prescription medications, infant formula and diapers, pet food, and cash. Remember to check your supplies every few months and replace expired items. The BBB also recommends homeowners keep the following items in mind when preparing:
Catalogue your valuables. Take pictures of your valuables and place them in a safe. This can help the insurance company assess the dollar amount for your losses.
Protect important documents. Place copies of important family documents such as birth certificates, passports, insurance policies and photos in a waterproof, portable container near your escape route.
The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Send questions regarding homeowner issues to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail her at lnapoliello@bbbhou.org. Include mailing address and phone number on letters and emails.