Sen. Cruz Encourages Disaster Preparedness During Hurricane Season
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement in preparation for hurricane season:
“Hurricane season has officially begun. An increase in the potential for devastating storms and floods ought to be accompanied by an increase in preparedness for such an event.”
“Taking commonsense steps to prepare for these storms is the best way that we can protect our homes and businesses in Texas. We’ve felt the devastation of hurricanes time and time again along the Gulf Coast. That devastation continues to serve as a reminder that we must each do our part to minimize potential damage from a natural disaster. Doing so could save lives.”
“Texans are resilient. We must continue to support one another as we take on yet another hurricane season together.”
Here are some steps you can take to prepare for hurricane season:
- Know your evacuation route and make an emergency plan: Know the location of your regular disaster shelter. Know your evacuation zone and learn your evacuation routes.
- Gather supplies: FEMA recommends having enough food, water, and other supplies for every member of your family for at least 72 hours. Additionally, FEMA recommends you are prepared with disinfectant supplies and medication. Having these items prepared beforehand will help ensure you are safe should your home become inaccessible.
- Ensure you are tech ready: Set up several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) – which require no sign-up. Additionally, have items on hand to keep you connected – like a backup phone charger.
- Help your neighborhood prepare: Check with neighbors to see how you can help – especially senior adults or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans.
- Review your important documents: Ensure your insurance policies and personal documents like IDs are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space.
- Strengthen your home: Bring in outside furniture, declutter gutters and drains, and consider hurricane shutters. Locate electricity and gas shutoff mechanisms for future reference should they need to be cut off.
For additional disaster preparedness information and resources visit https://www.cruz.senate.gov/natural-disasters.
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