Latest local news, weather, high school sports in the Rio Grande Valley

Hurricane safety

Be prepared and have a plan of action ready to initiate when your area falls under a hurricane watch or warning.

1. Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
2. Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard. In certain circumstances the safest areas may not be your home but within your community.
3. Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet.
4. Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact.
5. Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
6. Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
7. Check your insurance coverage - flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance. National Flood Insurance Program
8. Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a Disaster Supply Kit.
9. Use a NOAA weather radio. Remember to replace its battery every 6 months, as you do with your smoke detectors. 

For more information on being prepared, go here: www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/disaster_prevention.shtml