Hurricane Preparedness

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The best time to prepare for disaster is before it happens.

We all know how dangerous storms can be, so please take the time to ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared now. You can also count on us to be here for you after the storm.

Hurricane season goes from June 1 through November 30, and we want to ensure you have the information you need to get prepared and stay prepared. We know that decades of neglect and disinvestment have left some communities with much less protection against hurricanes and flooding than others. That’s why we are committed to ensuring equity in our hurricane preparedness, response, and recovery. Everyone deserves to be protected.

This information will help you and your family prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, including what to do if a hurricane hits, and steps to assist with recovery after a storm. We will get through this hurricane season together and you can count on us to be here before, during, and after the storm. Stay safe!

Before a Hurricane

If officials determine a hurricane will hit our area, here are some tips to prepare.
•    Shop early and build your disaster kit
•    Refill prescriptions and other medical supplies
•    Take pictures of property and belongings for insurance purposes
•    Fuel your vehicles and generators
•    Cover windows with plywood and buy sandbags, if needed
•    Bring in all outdoor furniture or objects
•    Sign up for emergency alerts on your mobile devices
•    Monitor trusted sources for updates and instructions; check evacuation map
•    If you have pets make sure your emergency kit has carriers, collars/ID, leashes, pet food and other pet supplies ready to go
•    Charge your phone and fill your vehicles’ gas tanks
•    Turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting
•    Have flashlights, batteries, and a basic toolkit on-hand

During a Hurricane

  • Bring pets inside
  • Never use a generator indoors
  • Stay away from windows
  • If flooding occurs:
    • Shut off main electric breaker
    • Bring important documents and get higher location
    • Do not use electrical or gas appliances
  • If evacuation is necessary
    • Take supply kit with you
    • Stay tuned to trusted sources to learn when it’s safe to return

After a Hurricane

  • If you see a down power line, stay away and call 713-207-2222
  • Check on family and neighbors, if safe to do so
  • Notify your insurance agent
  • Create a list of damaged property
  • Keep a record of temporary repairs or expenses
  • If evacuated, wait for officials to announce that it is safe to return
  • Use community legal resources like Lone Star Legal Aid

Emergency Preparation Kit:

  • Flashlights
  • Batteries
  • Bottled Water (5-7 days)
  • Non-Perishable Food (5-7 days)
  • Fully Charged Cell Phone
  • Full Tank of Gas
  • Copies of Important Docs
  • First Aid Supplies & Meds
  • Personal Hygiene Supplies
  • Pet Supplies
  • Change of Clothes and Bedding
  • Masks and Hand Sanitizer
  • Cash

Trusted Sources

Having reliable information from trusted sources allows you and your family to make informed decisions during a storm. You can rely on the following websites:

Helpful Phone Numbers

  • For all life-threatening emergencies: 9-1-1
  • For non-life-threatening rescues call:
    • City of Houston 3-1-1
    • Evacuation Assistance 2-1-1
    • Coast Guard 281-464-4851 or your Local Fire Dept.
    • Harris Co. Emergency Management: 713-881-3100
    • Harris Co. Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency: 713-221-6000

DOWNLOAD Precinct One's Get Ready, Stay Ready flyer in both English and Spanish. You can also find the most up-to-date weather information at ReadyHarris.org and sign up for alerts here.