May 25-31 is Hurricane Preparedness Week. Be Prepared. Get a Plan. Know Your Evacuation Zone

DENTON, Texas – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is joining its federal, tribal, state and local partners in Louisiana and Texas to commemorate Hurricane Preparedness Week by sharing critical information about the 2014 Atlantic Hurricane Season which starts on June 1 and ends on Nov. 30.

The week-long campaign not only provides an opportunity for emergency management experts to remind everyone about this year’s hurricane season outlook and how to prepare in advance, but it also gives individuals, families, and communities a chance to take action now and practice for an emergency.

“We encourage everyone to take basic steps to get ready before hurricane season begins,” said FEMA Regional Administrator Tony Robinson. “In addition to talking about what you should do and building emergency kits, people can also take part in exercises, drills and discussions about emergencies that are being held in their communities.”

Those in hurricane-prone areas are urged to visit www.ready.gov/prepare to learn about America’s PrepareAthon! and get involved in local training sessions. Basic hurricane preparedness tips include:

• Before a hurricane
• Prepare an evacuation kit; you can find more information on what you need in the kit at www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov.
• Secure any important papers in a waterproof container.
• Fill your vehicle’s tank up with gas.
• Get any necessary prescription medications refilled.
• Have enough cash on hand to last for several days.
• Make sure you have enough extra food and water for your pet.
• During a hurricane
• Listen to the radio or TV for information.
• If you are directed by local authorities to evacuate, be sure to follow their instructions.
• Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
• After a hurricane
• Safety is a primary issue, as is physical and mental well-being.

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FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.  Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/femaregion6 and the FEMA Blog at http://blog.fema.gov.