2019 Hurricane Preparedness Guide by Progress Times

HURRICAN

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LOCATIONS IN

LA JOYA • PALMVIEW

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Since 1980, 70 hurricanes & tropical storms have struck the Texas Coast!

That is an average of nearly two a year. DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY BEFORE AND AFTER THE STORM

HURRICANES & FLOODING » Protect Your Personal Documents and Special Items » Develop a Family Flood Plan » Never Drive on Flooded Roads

PLANNING AND PREPARING

» Prepare for Special Needs (The Elderly, Young and Your Pets) » Flood-proof Your Home With Sand Bags, Board Windows Up » Follow Evacuation Routes » Bring Medications

HURRICANE SUPPLY KIT » Have At Least a 7 Day Supply of Non-Perishable Food and Water » Keep a Battery Powered Radio, Television and Flashlight Ready » Bring Extra Clothing, Blankets and Sleeping Bags or Gear » Identification Cards, Medical Records, Birth Certificates and Lists of Family Contacts

Several links to help you get prepared

Ready.gov Redcross.org FEMA.gov Weather.gov

Plan F or Disast er Now

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE REGISTRY

» CALL 211

City of Mission

Emergency Operations Center

Hidalgo County Emergency Management

956-580-8705 956-383-2615 www.missiontexas.us

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Mission aims to inform residents about hurricane/heavy rainfall preparedness

By Jamie Treviño

The city of Mission, along with the entire Rio Grande Valley, is hoping to increase public preparedness in the event of flooding during this year’s hurricane season. Last June a rare 500-year storm hit the area, causing millions of dollars in personal and property damages reported to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Since then, Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 passed a bond issuance to address the drainage issues in the Valley, with several projects based in Mission. “Those are projects that are going to help our area tremendously,” Mission City Manager Randy Perez said. “The increase in capacity [for the Mission Inlet and Mission Lateral] is tremendous.” On top of the projects currently underway, the city of Mission has been prepping residents for the upcoming summer months. When a storm is predicted to hit the city area, staff has distributed sandbags for homeowners with proof of residence, and through the city’s public relations department an educational campaign has been launched to keep citizens engaged and informed. Perez noted they are taking a proactive

approach toward preparedness, and staff participated in a hurricane workshop last week to further plan for potential environmental storms. “We’re doing maintenance in our drainage ditches currently, we’re mowing and clearing the ditches in order to increase the capacity of water, because that’s the issue when you have a heavy downpour,” Perez said. “Too much water goes to our ditches at the same time, and once our ditches reach capacity, the water slows down because the system needs to take its course as it’s designed for.” Another way Mission is addressing drainage issues, largely blamed for the flooding last year, is through the recent creation of a drainage committee, made up of concerned residents and Mission community members who have been affected by the flooding or have experience in emergency management. “Citizens have been impressed with the committee and the steps we’re taking,” Mayor Armando O’caña said. “The fact that we’re putting everything out there electronically is going to help.” Mission is in the midst of putting together a geographic information system (GIS) on their website, so citizens can check where exactly the drainage system is located and how it flows. O’caña made

it clear that the city’s top priority is public safety. “We don’t want to lose any lives due to flooding, or lose lives in general,” O’caña said. “We want Mission to be a safe community.” “We need to be able to survive Mother Nature,” O’caña added. “Mother Nature is unpredictable, there’s no plans in place that we can put that can equate to what Mother Nature can bring. Having said that, we need to be able to protect our properties, we would rather have the water in the Gulf than have the water in your living room.” The city of Mission has also been preemptively sending out barricades to areas of concern in the event of flooding to prevent traffic. “One of the things that we’re [staff] doing on the weekends is cleaning inlets,” Perez said. “Every weekend is dedicated for Public Works to clean inlets, we basically open manholes and clean them because with all the rain events, you get a build-up of mud and debris.” Mayor O’caña said that while plenty of projects are underway, paying for them may not be as cut and dry. At this time Mission has been looking into applying for more grant funding, and will be using the $2.50 drainage assessment fee (already taken from residents’ monthly utility bill)

toward future endeavors. Typically, the city determines where people can pick up sandbags based on where it is easily accessible to residents, and plan on keeping people posted on social media, particularly Facebook. According to Perez, Mission has begun looking into more regular sandbag distribution during hurricane season, and may begin to make them readily available every other Saturday depending on need and availability. In the event of a torrential downpour, usually the Parks and Recreation Building (721 N. Bryan Rd.) is the place to go for shelter. Depending on the storm’s severity, schools from the Mission Consolidated Independent School District have been opened as shelters in the past. Citizens are encouraged to keep enough water and food supplies for at least one week in the event of a hurricane. If Mission residents notice their community drains cluttered with debris and cannot address it, they are encouraged by the city to call their Public Works Department at (956) 580-8780. If there are any questions about prepping for a heavy rainfall, the city’s Emergency Management Program can be reached at (956) 580-8705.

Hurricane Season is Here! 24 HOUR PHONE (956) 585-6081

DON’T WAIT. TAKE ACTION NOW.

Drinking Water Preparedness: ● Have clean containers for drinking water on hand. ● 1 gallon of water per person, per day, is a good rule of thumb. ● Be sure to have extra water for your pets. ● Children, nursing mothers, elderly, and the ill may require more water per day.

● Water saved in clean bottles before the storm should be good for several months, if properly stored.

● Be sure you have installed your own shut-off valve just past

the meter, inside your property. Close that valve if you have a water break on your service line.

● Pay attention to authorities on the status of your water supply.

VISIT THESE WEBSITES FOR MORE INFORMATION: CDC www.cdc.gov

FEMA www.ready.gov/hurricanes

NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php TCEQ www.tceq.texas.gov 4210 E MAIN AVE ALTON, TX 78573

P.O. BOX 1868 MISSION, TX 78573

www.sharylandwater.com

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS | CARING FOR ANIMALS

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rotecting your Pets Protecting your Pets HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS | CARING FOR ANIMALS

Once your children and other family members are properly protected during dangerous hurricane conditions, it’s time to turn your attention to your pets.

Pets are especially vulnerable during storms given their size and dependency on us. If you plan on evacuating with your pet, you’ll want to consider what that process looks like months in advance of the event. The more time you spend on putting together a solid plan, the smoother your experience will be. Make a Plan Remember, during a disaster what’s good for you is good for your pet, so get them ready today. If you leave your pets behind, they may be lost, injured – or worse. Never leave a pet chained outdoors. Plan options include: • Create a buddy system in case you’re not home. Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your animals. • Identify shelters. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. • Find pet friendly hotels along your evacuation route and keep a list in your pet’s emergency kit. • Locate boarding facilities or animal hospitals near your evacuation shelter. • Toys or familiar items to them safe. WHAT TO BRING STAYING PUT • Consider an out-of-town friend or relWhen gathering your evacu- keep nerves under control. Leaving your pets home It’s important to keep pets in ative n materials, be sure to col•Also include any of your alone should be the absolute a room away from windows. If • Locate a veterinarian or animal hospiwhat your pets will need. pet’s medication and vaccinalast option for your family, and they become stressed during tal in the area where you may be seeking s includes: tion records with your other is actually illegal in many states storms, spend time with them temporary shelter, in case your pet needs A week’s worth of food and important documents. This during hurricane conditions. to keep them calm and under medical care. Add the contact information led water. can be critical if your pet is Not all tropical storms control. Make sure there is A sturdy carrier. injured during the storm and require evacuation. If you plan plenty of water and food in to your emergency kit. Leash, harness and identi- requires a trip to an out-ofon riding out a storm with your containers that are self-feed• Have your pet microchipped and tion tags. town vet. pets, it’s up to you to keep ing. make sure that you not only keep your address and phone number up-to-date, but that you also include contact info for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area. • Call your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get advice and information. • If you are unable to return to your home right away, you may need to board your pet. Find out where pet boarding facilities are located. • Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet’s Jerry Saenz medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current. Agent • If you have no alternative but to leave your pet at home, there are some precautions you must take, but remember that leaving your pet at home alone can place your animal in great danger! Tips for Large Animals If you have large animals such as horses, cattle, sheep, goats or pigs on your property, be sure to prepare before a disasLIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR STATE FARM IS THERE.® ter. • Ensure all animals have some form of PROVIDING INSURANCE & FINANCIAL SERVICES identification. © ADOBE STOCK

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• Evacuate animals whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance. • Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal. Also make available experienced handlers and drivers. • Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care and handling equipment. • If evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to shelter or turn them outside. Take extra time to observe livestock, looking for early signs of disease and injury. Build a Kit Include basic survival items and items to keep your pet happy and comfortable. Start with this list, or download Preparing Makes Sense for Pet Owners-Emergency Preparedness Pet Kit List (PDF) to find out exactly what items your pet needs to be Ready. • Food. At least a three day supply in an airtight, waterproof container. • Water. At least three days of water specifically for your pets. • Medicines and medical records. • Important documents. Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents. Talk to your veterinarian about microchipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery database. • First aid kit. Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is a good idea too. • Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash. • Crate or pet carrier. Have a sturdy, safe crate or carrier in case you need to evacuate. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down. • Sanitation. Pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach. • A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you. Add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics. • Familiar items. Familiar items, such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet. For more detailed information visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)

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www.cityofpalmview.com • Can opener for food, (canned food.) • Local Maps • Sand Bags, Plywood (For Windows).

Evacuation Route: Out of the Rio Grande Valley • I-2 East to Pharr interchange, then take North Interstate 69C towards San Antonio, TX. • I-2 West to Laredo, TX then take north I-35 towards San Antonio. •For more Information check local maps and/or Google Maps.

Keep a list of contact information for reference: • City of Palmview Emergency Management Office (956) 432-0300 • Palmview Police/Fire Department - 911 • www.cityofpalmview.com • Hidalgo County EMS - 911 • State, County and City/Town Government • Local Hospitals, Utilities, American Red Cross • Your Property Insurance Agent

Shelters • TBA in coordination with Hidalgo County through local media outlets Emergency Supply Lists: Extras to consider • Prescription medications and glasses • Infant formula and diapers • Pet food and extra water for your pet • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. • Cash or travelers checks and change • Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. • Fire Extinguisher • Matches in a waterproof container • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items • Mess Kits, paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils, and paper towels • Paper and pencil • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

Emergency Supply Lists: Basic Emergency Supplies • Water, One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation. • Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a 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-inplace. • Moist towels, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation. • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

Weather: • NOAA Weather Radios (Can be purchased at your local Walmart) • Also refer to social media for any updates via Twitter, Facebook, and Snapchat for any up dates with local weather stations/ TV stations. • Radio NOAA emite avisos, vigilancias, pronósticos y otra información de riesgo del Servicio Nacional de Meteorología 24 horas al día. Conocido como “la voz del Servicio Nacional de Meteorología,” Radio NOAA es proporcionada como un servicio público por la Oficina Nacional de Administración Oceánica y Atmosférica y el Departamento de Comercio Federal.

Jerry Alaniz - (956) 432-0307

Fire Chief / Emergency Management Coordinator

Gilbert Zamora - (956) 432-0303 Police Chief

Ricardo Villarreal Mayor

Joel Garcia Mayor Pro Tem

Javier Ramirez Councilman

Jose Luis Perez Councilman

Michael Leo - City Manager

Linda Sarabia Councilwoman

Anthony Uresti Councilman

HURRICANE 2019 | Progress times

HURRICANE

NM EL PASO

AUSTIN

BEAUMONT

MEXICO

GA JACKSONVIILLE

LAKE CHARLES

HOUSTON

SAN ANTONIO

TEXAS

NC SC

DALLAS

TRACKING MAP

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NEW ORLEANS

GALVESTON

CORPUS CHRISTI

TAMPA McALLEN BROWNSVILLE

THE GULF OF MEXICO

MIAMI

KEY WEST

HAVANA

TAMPICO

CUBA

MERIDA

VERACRUZ

JAM

GUATEMALA

HONDURAS

EL SALVADOR

NICARAGUA

COSTA RICA

110

105

100

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30 30 BAHAMAS

25 25

ASSAU

ATLANTIC NAMES SANTIAGO

HAITI

2019

PUERTO RICO

MAICA

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20 20

15 15 10 10

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Hurricane Season 2019

are you PREPARED? Ruben Garcia Fire Captain

EMERGENCY DIAL

911

facebook.com/ cityofpenitas

www.CityOfPenitas.com

MAYOR

RIGO LOPEZ

MAYOR PRO-TEM

COUNCILMAN

RAMIRO LOYA FELIPE QUINTANILLA

COUNCILMAN

ALEX GUAJARDO JOSE ROEL FLORES

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SAFE HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS | STAYING HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS | STAYING SAFE

Safety Tips GeneratorGenerator Safety Tips A generator can be

A generator can be your best friend during and after a friend your best powerful hurricane. during and after a

It can power your appliances during power outages and give your family peace of mind during a stressful situation. It can also provide you with adequate power for refrigeration, lighting and the powering of your critical devices, including mobile phones and weather radios. But with generators comes great responsibility to properly use, maintain and service them. People can become seriously injured or sickened if something goes wrong with their generator. Always remember to follow your user’s manual and keep up on minor repairs, if necessary. AVOID DANGEROUS SITUATIONS One of the major risks of using a generator is carbon monoxide poisoning, something that may be difficult to detect initially. You must use proper ventilation to reduce this dangerous situation from occurring. Also, equip your home with a carbon monoxide detector to warn your family of rising levels. Exposure to the engine exhaust can cause death if generators are used improp-

powerful hurricane. erly. If you think you’ve been exposed to generator exhaust, get fresh It can power your appliances outages and give air immediately and during visit power a medical proyour family peace of mind fessional for any dizziness or lightheadedduring a stressful situation. It ness. can also provide you with adequate power There are some simple rulesfortorefrigeration, rememand the powering of ber when getting yourlighting generator ready: your critical devices, including • Never use them indoors; mobile phones and weather radios. • Never use them outside But with generators comes near windows, vents or airresponsibility intakes;toand great properly use, to maintain andplenty service of • Keep other items clear allow People can become seriair flow space around them. the generator. ously injured or sickened if KEEP KIDS AWAY something goes wrong with generator.proper acAlways teach yourtheir children Always remember tions around your generator. Simpleto follow rules your user’s manual and keep like, ‘don’t touch, it’suphot’ arerepairs, easyifto reon minor necessary. member and understand. The exterior portions ofAVOID a generator can DANGEROUS become hot to the touch and cause burns. SITUATIONS One of the major risks ofthe Your children should avoid touching using a generator is carbon generator without protective monoxide poisoning, somegear. Teaching your kids healthy respect thing a that may be difficult to detect initially. mustthem use for the power of a generator can You keep proper ventilation to reduce safe around it. this dangerous situation from FUELING YOURoccurring. GENERATOR Also, equip your with a carbon monoxide Always store yourhome generator fuel out-

detector to warn your family of rising levels. Exposure to the engine exhaust can cause death if generators are used improperly. If you think you’ve been exposed to generator exhaust, get fresh air immediately and visit a medical professional for any

Be Prepared This Hurricane Season

doors in an approved container or holding tank in line with the requirements in your owners’ manual. Never keep fuel near the generator while it’s in useKEEP because of the KIDS AWAY dizziness or lightheadedness. Always teach important your children There are some simple rules potential fire hazards. Another to remember when getting your generator ready: • Never use them indoors; • Never use them outside near windows, vents or air intakes; and • Keep other items clear to allow plenty of air flow space around the generator.

proper actions around your generator. Simple rules like, ‘don’t touch, it’s hot’ are easy to remember and understand. The exterior portions of a generator can become hot to the touch and cause burns. Your children should avoid touching the generator without pro-

safety tip is to never refuel the generator while it is running. Keep these safety tips in mind so you can enjoy the perks of a generator without health and safety your owners’ manual. Never tective gear. Teaching your the keep fuel near the generator kids a healthy respect for the hazards.

power of a generator can keep them safe around it.

FUELING YOUR GENERATOR

Always store your generator fuel outdoors in an approved container or holding tank in line with the requirements in

while it’s in use because of the potential fire hazards. Another important safety tip is to never refuel the generator while it is running. Keep these safety tips in mind so you can enjoy the perks of a generator without the health and safety hazards.

Be sure to have:

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1: Make sure your Generator, Chain Saw and Water Pump will run before your need them. If your fuel is older than 30 days, its best to get fresh fuel for hurricane season, and treat it with B3C Solutions Ethanol Shield. Come in and ask us about this revolutionary fuel treatment. 2: Take a look around your home and look for potential hazards. Trim trees before a hurricane to reduce potential branches from breaking off and damaging your home and vehicles. Repairing a fence that is weak or missing some boards can prevent the damage from wind blown debris during a hurricane.

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HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS | CARING FOR OTHERS

Tips for the Disabled PREPAREDNESS CARING FOR OTHERS CertainHURRICANE populations are particularly vulnerable during storm situations. Once such group is disabled people. |

Tips for the Disabled Special care and planning must be taken to keep the disabled safe during a hurricane. There are many things to consider

when making sure our disabled population has what they need when serious storms threaten the flow of their normal lives.

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sign up online. • The Direct Express prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at (877) 212-9991 or sign up online.

from missing important weather notifications. Ready.gov also recommends keeping pens and paper in your emergency kit in case you have to communicate with an emergency worker who does not know sign language.

labels or large print so you can easily access them in highstress situations. Another key part of your emergency kit should be a Braille, or deaf-blind communications device. This can help enhance communications in high-stress situations.

if you use a powered wheelchair, you have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup. Remember to purchase an extra battery for a powered wheelchair or other battery-operated medical device or assistive technology device to make sure you don’t run out of juice during a critical emergency such as a hurricane.

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THINK ELECTRONIC For disabled people depending on daily medication, it may be a good strategy to switch to electronic payments. A hurricane and other natural disasters can interrupt mail service for long periods of time. Waiting for mailed payments could cause delays, and delays in medication fulfillment could cause major issues for those struggling with disabilities. Switching to electronic payment plans is a great way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. For those depending on Social Security, the U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends two safe ways to get federal benefits during times of mail being shut down from serious storms: • Direct deposit to a checking or savings account. Federal benefit recipients can sign up by calling (800) 333-1795 or sign up online. • The Direct Express prepaid debit card is designed as a safe and easy alternative to paper checks. Call toll-free at (877) 2129991 or sign up online. DEAF OR HEARING IMPAIRED Using a weather radio with text display

and a flashing alert can help the hearing impaired from missing important weather notifications. Ready.gov also recommends keeping pens and paper in your emergency kit in case you have to communicate with an emergency worker who does not know sign language. BLIND OR VISION IMPAIRED Be sure to mark your emergency supplies with Braille labels or large print so you can easily access them in highstress situations. Another key part of your emergency kit should be a Braille, or deaf-blind communications device. This can help enhance communications in high-stress situations. LIMITED IN MOBILITY Ready.gov recommends that if you use a powered wheelchair, you have a lightweight manual chair available as a backup. Remember to purchase an extra battery for a powered wheelchair or other battery-operated medical device or assistive technology device to make sure you don’t run out of juice during a critical emergency such as a hurricane.

“WILL YOUR INSURANCE POLICY COVER YOU IN THE EVENT OF A HURRICANE?”

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YOUR HOME TOWN INDEPENDANT AGENT

Serving The Rio Grande Valley Since 1911 220 E.Tom Landry Phone:956-581-2183

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Alton unveils Code Red Weather Warning By Jose De Leon III

g In preparation of hurricane season, the rcity of Alton unveiled a text-based weather swarning system to residents last month. Code Red Weather Warning delivers hadvanced warning of severe weather as wsoon as a bulletin is issued by the National Weather Service. The automatic system delivers voice calls, text messages and emails to subscribed users. Alton City Manager Jeff Underwood ssaid the city’s “investment” in Code Red guarantees resident’s safety at the click of ta button. - “All they need to do is subscribe on our ecity website and they’re set,” Underwood said, adding that not many other cities in the Valley offer the service due to its cost-a e$6,000 yearly subscription for cities. - Residents can sign up for these text .alerts at https://alton-tx.gov/. y Besides Code Red, Alton distributes -sandbags to residents on a as-needed-basis ewhen the National Weather Service warns tof an impending storm. Sandbags can be up near the city’s regional training -picked facility at 416 S. Alton Blvd and residents need to provide a water bill or similar type of proof of residency. If residents are evacuated, the city’s recreational center will provide temporary

shelter, along with cots and a warm meal. Underwood added that residents will then be transported to wherever the Red Cross Shelter is available, as the Red Cross opens shelters in response to massive storms. The neighboring city of Palmview also distributes sandbags on a as needed basis based on information from the National Weather Service. According to Palmview Fire Chief Jerry Alaniz, the locations vary based on the number of sandbags that will be needed for any weather event and locations will be sent out to all media outlets with all the information for residents. Sandbags are usually distributed at a pavilion north of city hall. The City of Palmview works in conjunction with the County of Hidalgo, Red Cross, and La Joya ISD for any shelters that may be needed. Locations are determined by the La Joya school district as they provide multiple locations based on the need. Palmhurst will also distribute sandbags as needed. They may be picked up at city hall located at 4417 N. Shary Rd. A picture ID or utility bill is needed to pick one up. For any residents in need of a shelter, Palmhurst police Chief Michael Vela recommends they call the police department (956) 519-3800 to be provided with a list of shelters they can go to.

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11B

City of Alton 509 S. Alton Blvd. Alton, TX 78573

(956) 432-0760

Be Prepared For Hurricane Season Hurricanes & Flooding • Protect personal documents and special items. • Develop a family flood plan. • Never drive on flooded roads. Planning & Preparing • Prepare for special needs (elderly, young and pets). • Flood proof your home with sand bags. • Follow evacuation routes. • Have medication ready. Hurricane Supply Kit • Have a 7 day supply of non-perishable food and water. • Keep a battery powered radio, television & flashlight ready. • Have identification cards, medical records, birth certificates and lists of family contacts.

go to: www.alton-tx.gov and click

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Alton City Hall (956) 432-0760 Alton Fire Department (956) 432-0740 Alton Police Department (956) 432-0700 For emergencies, dial 911 Utililize Alton’s Mobile 311 to report damage and floods

12B

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BUILD A KIT

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find, and any one of them could save your life. Headed to the store? Once you take a look at the basic items, consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets, or seniors. After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: • Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation • Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert • Flashlight • First aid kit • Extra batteries • Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities • Manual can opener for food • Local maps • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs: • Prescription medications • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives • Glasses and contact lense solution • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream • Pet food and extra water for your pet • Cash or traveler’s checks • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

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• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water • Fire extinguisher • Matches in a waterproof container • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils • Paper and pencil • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed: • Keep canned food in a cool, dry place • Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers • Replace expired items as needed • Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change. • Kit Storage Locations Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and vehicles. • Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept. • Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case. • Vehicle: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

For more information about preparing for hurricanes, please visit: • American Red Cross • National Hurricane Center • Texas Department of Transportation (Road Conditions) • U.S. Coast Guard Storm Center • NWS / Brownsville

Palmhurst Police (956) 519-3800

Jaime Aranda Councilman

Ruben De Leon Councilman

Israel Silva Councilman

4417 North Shary Rd. • Palmhurst, TX • (956)583-8697 www.cityofpalmhursttx.com

Ofelia Peña-Perez Councilwoman