FEMA Officials Say Keep Your Car Ready To Go
Part of a series on Hurricane Preparedness in Texas
Release Date: May 10, 2006
Release Number: 1606-209
» More Information on Texas Hurricane Rita
AUSTIN, Texas -- Once a tropical disturbance enters or forms in the Gulf of Mexico, local officials monitor activity and provide information to the public through the media in accordance with State and local emergency preparedness plans.
"It is extremely important for Texans in coastal cities to be aware of local weather conditions and monitor the situation if there is a disturbance in the Gulf," said Butch Smith, director of the Texas Transitional Recovery Office of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). "If a tropical disturbance is in the Gulf, keep a full tank of gas in your car so you can leave immediately when local officials give the word to evacuate."
Officials also recommend that once a hurricane watch is announced for your area, place your disaster supply kit, food and water, and maps in your car. You may want to make lodging reservations at this time. For information on preparing a disaster supply kit, consult www.ready.gov Web site.
Well in advance of hurricane season, make a record of your possessions to help you claim reimbursement in case of loss or damage. Additionally, you should store important documents and vital records in a safe deposit box or other secure, flood-safe location. Include photographs or video of the interior and exterior of your home, as well as cars, boats and recreational vehicles. Have photos of durable medical equipment and make a record of the make and model numbers for each item. Get professional appraisals of jewelry, collectibles, artwork, or other items that may be difficult to evaluate. Make copies of receipts and canceled checks showing the cost for valuable items.
Vital family records and other important documents, such as birth and marriage certificates; Social Security cards; passports; military discharge papers; wills; deeds; and financial, insurance, and immunization records should be kept in a safe deposit box or other safe location. Make copies of these documents for your disaster supply kit, too.
It is a good idea to have photocopies of the front and back of your driver's license and medical and credit cards, and a copy of a recent utility bill if you need to show proof of residence. Have the name of your insurance company(ies) and policy number(s), and checking account and bank routing numbers. Secure all these documents in a watertight, sealable food storage bag.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 10-May-2006 10:28:04