Hurricanes

Hurricane Watch

Hurricane watch = conditions possible within the next 48 hrs. Steps to take:
Review your emergency plan

Monitor and bookmark the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management website https://gcoem.org/stay-informed for storm updates and emergency instructions.
Review the items in your disaster supply kit and add items to meet the household needs for children, parents, individuals with disabilities or other access and functional needs or pets.

Hurricane Warning

Hurricane warning = conditions are expected within 36 hrs. Steps to take:

Monitor the the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management website https://gcoem.org/stay-informed for storm updates and emergency instructions.
Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.
Follow the hurricane timeline preparedness checklist, depending on when the storm is anticipated to hit and the impact that is projected for your location.

Turn on your TV or radio in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power. Remember that during disasters, sending text messages is usually reliable and faster than making phone calls because phone lines are often overloaded.
Review your evacuation plan with your family. You may have to leave quickly, so plan ahead.
Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full; stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.

Bring loose, lightweight objects inside that could become projectiles in high winds (e.g., patio furniture, garbage cans); anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside (e.g., propane tanks); and trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building.
Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.

Turn on your TV/radio, or check the county website https://gcoem.org/stay-informed every 30 minutes in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
Charge your cell phone now so you will have a full battery in case you lose power.

Close storm shutters, and stay away from windows. Flying glass from broken windows could injure you.
Turn your refrigerator or freezer to the coldest setting and open only when necessary. If you lose power, food will last longer. Keep a thermometer in the refrigerator to be able to check the food temperature when the power is restored.
Ensure cell phones are charged case you lose power.

What to do During a Hurricane

Continue to shelter in place.
Stay indoors, preferably in an interior room, on the bottom floor, and away from windows.
Listen to NOAA weather radio for updates and instructions.
Do not go outside until you are certain that the hurricane has cleared your area. Some areas will get the eye of the storm, or a clearing in weather conditions and then the second set of hurricane bands will ensue.