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Caring for Pets During a Hurricane: Essential Tips for Texas Forest Country Residents

By
Lee Allen Miller
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As hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial not only to prepare your home and family but also to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets. Pets are part of the family, and their needs must be considered in your hurricane preparedness plan. Here are some essential tips on preparing your pets for a hurricane, including assembling a pet-friendly emergency kit and identifying pet-friendly shelters in the Texas Forest Country region.

Preparing Your Pet for a Hurricane

1. Assemble a Pet Emergency Kit Just like humans, pets need an emergency kit that contains all the essentials they might need during a hurricane. Here’s what to include:

  • Food and Water: At least three days’ worth of food and water. Use airtight containers to keep food fresh and dry.
  • Medications and Medical Records: Ensure you have a supply of your pet’s medications, along with copies of medical records, including vaccination records.
  • Collar with ID Tag, Harness, and Leash: Your pet should wear a collar with an ID tag at all times. Include a harness and leash in your kit for easy handling.
  • Crate or Pet Carrier: A sturdy, comfortable crate or carrier for each pet. Ensure it’s large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down.
  • Sanitation Supplies: Include litter and a litter box (for cats), plastic bags, paper towels, and pet-safe disinfectant.
  • Comfort Items: Familiar items like blankets, toys, or bedding can help reduce stress.
  • First Aid Kit: Basic first aid supplies tailored for pets, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary pet-specific medications.
  • Photo of You and Your Pet: A current photo of you and your pet together in case you get separated.

2. Create a Pet Evacuation Plan

  • Pet-Friendly Shelters and Accommodations: Identify local pet-friendly shelters and accommodations in advance. The Texas Forest Country region has several resources that can assist:
    • The Winnie Berry Humane Society of Angelina County: Offers guidance on local shelters and can assist in emergency situations.
    • Nacogdoches Animal Services: Provides information on pet-friendly shelters and emergency boarding.
    • Local Veterinary Clinics: Many local vets offer emergency boarding services. Check with your vet for recommendations.
  • Pet-Friendly Hotels: Have a list of pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation route. Websites like BringFido.com can help you find accommodations.

3. Microchip and ID Your Pet Ensure your pet is microchipped and wears a collar with up-to-date identification. This greatly increases the chances of being reunited if you get separated. Keep a record of the microchip number in your emergency kit.

4. Stay Informed and Prepared

  • Monitor Weather Alerts: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be aware of evacuation orders. Pets often sense changes in weather and may become anxious, so maintaining a calm demeanor is important.
  • Practice Evacuation Drills: Conduct evacuation drills with your pets to familiarize them with the process. This reduces stress and confusion during an actual emergency.

Finding Pet-Friendly Shelters

In the Texas Forest Country region, several shelters and organizations can assist during a hurricane:

  • The Winnie Berry Humane Society of Angelina County: Provides resources and support for pet owners during emergencies. Contact them at (936) 639-1880 or visit their website.
  • Nacogdoches Animal Services: Offers information on pet-friendly shelters and emergency boarding. Contact them at (936) 560-5011 or visit their website.
  • Local Veterinary Clinics: Many clinics provide emergency boarding services. Check with your vet for options in your area.

Additionally, many local community centers and churches open their doors to pets and their owners during hurricanes. Stay connected with local news and community bulletins for the latest information on available shelters.

Preparing for a hurricane involves ensuring the safety and well-being of all family members, including pets. By assembling a pet emergency kit, creating an evacuation plan, and knowing where to find pet-friendly shelters, you can protect your furry friends during a storm. For more detailed information and resources, visit the Humane Society of Angelina County and Nacogdoches Animal Services.

Remember, being prepared is the best way to keep your pets safe during hurricane season. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.

Governor Abbott Adds Five Counties To State Disaster Declaration

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Credits to Governor's photo: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-adds-counties-to-disaster-declaration-waives-permits-to-accelerate-recovery-urges-vigilance-in-responding-to-hurricane-nicholas

Announces FEMA Approval To Add Three More Counties To Presidential Disaster Declaration

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today announced that he added five counties to the state’s disaster declaration for Texas communities impacted by recent severe weather. The counties added today include Dallas, Fannin, Hockley, Lynn, and Rockwall. Additional counties may be added at a later date as damage assessments are completed.

“Texas is adding five counties to the state’s disaster declaration to ensure Texans have all the assistance and resources they need to rebuild and recover,” said Governor Abbott. “I encourage every Texan who sustained damage to their home or business to report it using the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s iSTAT damage survey. This tool will help determine if counties are eligible for additional financial assistance. I thank all of the emergency response personnel and first responders who are working tirelessly to help their fellow Texans move forward from these devastating storms.”

Additionally, the Governor announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved a request from the State of Texas to add three more counties impacted by severe weather to the Presidential Disaster Declaration. FEMA has added Bell, Henderson, and Tyler counties to become eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program. FEMA’s Individual Assistance program funding assists with expenses such as temporary housing, emergency home repairs, uninsured and underinsured personal property losses, disaster legal services, disaster unemployment assistance, and medical, dental, and funeral expenses caused by the disaster.

Qualifying Texans in the following counties are eligible to apply: Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Denton, Eastland, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity, Tyler, Walker and Waller. Texans can apply for FEMA disaster assistance online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362.

The Governor’s request for Individual Assistance remains under FEMA’s review for Austin, Coryell, Dallas, Ellis, Falls, Hockley, Kaufman, Leon, Navarro, and Smith counties. Additional counties may be added to the Governor’s request as additional damage assessments are completed in affected communities.

State emergency response and recovery resources remain engaged in support of local officials in communities impacted by severe storms and flooding that began on April 26.

Texans who experienced property damage are urged to report their damages utilizing the online Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) damage survey by visiting damage.tdem.texas.gov. This will help officials connect impacted Texans with resources and services. Additionally, once those damages are reported to the state, officials can work to determine whether they meet the federally set thresholds for federal disaster assistance.

Governor Abbott continues to take action to provide all available resources to help support local communities from the impacts of severe weather, including:

  • Readying state emergency response resources on April 25 ahead of wildfire and severe weather threats.
  • Issuing a disaster declaration on April 30 for counties affected by recent storms and deploying additional state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather and flooding. The Governor first amended his disaster declaration on May 2, updated it further on May 7, amended it again on May 15, added additional counties on May 20, made additional updates on May 26, and added five counties today.
  • Increasing the readiness level of the State Emergency Operations Center to help support local officials with requests for state assistance.
  • Holding a briefing on May 6 with local and state officials from impacted areas and providing an update on the state’s robust response efforts in support of local communities.
  • Requesting a Presidential Disaster Declaration on May 15 for Texas communities impacted by severe storms.
  • Securing partial approval of a Presidential Disaster Declaration on May 17 for areas of the state affected by severe weather.
  • Requesting additional counties be added to the Presidential Disaster Declaration on May 19 for Texas communities impacted by severe storms.
  • Providing an update on the state’s response and recovery efforts in impacted communities.

Evacuation Planning: What You Need to Know

By
Lee Allen Miller
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As hurricane season approaches, having a well-thought-out evacuation plan is essential for ensuring the safety of you and your family. Hurricanes can strike with little warning, and having a plan in place can make a significant difference in how you handle an emergency. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create an effective evacuation plan, what to take with you, and where to go, based on recommendations from local government websites and FEMA.

Creating an Evacuation Plan

1. Know Your Evacuation Zone

  • Tip: Familiarize yourself with your community’s hurricane evacuation zones and routes. These zones are often mapped out by local governments and can indicate the areas most at risk during a hurricane.
  • How-To: Visit your local government’s website or emergency management office to find maps and information about evacuation zones and routes. Make sure you know the zone you live in and the best routes to take.

2. Designate a Safe Meeting Place

  • Tip: Choose two safe meeting spots for your family. One should be right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, and the other should be outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home.
  • How-To: Select a location that is easily accessible and known to all family members. Practice meeting at these spots to ensure everyone knows where to go.

3. Develop a Communication Plan

  • Tip: Create a plan for staying in touch with family members during an evacuation. Identify an out-of-town contact who can act as a central point for everyone to check in with.
  • How-To: Compile a list of important phone numbers and ensure that all family members have a copy. Use text messages or social media to communicate if phone lines are congested.

4. Plan for Your Pets

  • Tip: Include your pets in your evacuation plan. Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels along your evacuation route.
  • How-To: Make sure your pets are microchipped and have identification tags. Pack a pet emergency kit with food, water, medications, and comfort items.

5. Practice Your Plan

  • Tip: Regularly practice your evacuation plan with all family members. This helps to ensure everyone knows what to do and can execute the plan quickly.
  • How-To: Conduct evacuation drills and review the plan periodically. Update the plan as needed to account for any changes in your household or community.

What to Take with You

1. Emergency Kit

  • Contents: Your emergency kit should include water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and a manual can opener.
  • Tip: Keep the kit in a portable container that’s easy to grab and go. Ensure it’s stocked and ready at all times.

2. Important Documents

  • Contents: Pack copies of important documents such as identification, insurance policies, medical records, and bank account information in a waterproof container.
  • Tip: Consider keeping digital copies of these documents on a secure cloud service or USB drive.

3. Clothing and Personal Items

  • Contents: Pack clothing, toiletries, and personal hygiene items for each family member. Include sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Tip: Don’t forget special items like glasses, hearing aids, and essential baby supplies.

4. Cash and Credit Cards

  • Contents: Have cash in small bills and credit cards ready. ATMs and electronic payment systems may not be operational during an emergency.
  • Tip: Keep some cash hidden in multiple places within your belongings for added security.

5. Comfort Items

  • Contents: Bring comfort items such as blankets, pillows, books, and toys for children.
  • Tip: These items can help reduce stress and provide some sense of normalcy during a chaotic time.

Where to Go

1. Identify Local Shelters

  • Tip: Know the locations of local shelters and the routes to get there. Shelters are typically set up by local governments and the Red Cross.
  • How-To: Use local government websites and resources like FEMA’s app to find and map out the nearest shelters.

2. Plan Your Evacuation Route

  • Tip: Plan multiple routes to your destination in case roads are blocked or traffic is heavy.
  • How-To: Use maps and GPS to identify primary and alternate routes. Share these routes with family members.

3. Know Pet-Friendly Locations

  • Tip: Not all shelters accept pets, so it’s crucial to know pet-friendly shelters and hotels in advance.
  • How-To: Use resources like BringFido.com or contact local animal shelters to find pet-friendly evacuation options.

4. Coordinate with Friends or Family

  • Tip: Arrange to stay with friends or family outside the affected area if possible.
  • How-To: Discuss your evacuation plans with them in advance and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Final Tips

  • Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates to stay informed about evacuation orders and hurricane progress.
  • Fuel Up: Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full during hurricane season to ensure you can evacuate without delay.
  • Stay Calm: Evacuations can be stressful, but staying calm and following your plan can make the process smoother and safer for everyone involved.

Having a detailed and practiced evacuation plan is crucial for safety during a hurricane. By knowing what to do, what to take, and where to go, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared to handle the challenges that come with these powerful storms. For more information and resources, visit FEMA and your local government’s emergency management website.

Stay safe this hurricane season, and remember that preparation is key.

Angelina College Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

No games on tap, but plenty of stuff to keep folks busy – especially the little ones. There are numerous Angelina College athletics camps coming up for youngsters, along with some evaluation camps for prospective future Roadrunners.

Here’s what’s heading our way:

Focus on FUNdamentals

AC Athletics Programs Hosting Youth Summer Camps

Angelina College Athletics programs are hosting a series of youth summer camps in conjunction with the college’s “Camp Roadrunner” recreation camps. The camps focus on building both fundamentals and love of the game; instructors include the AC coaching staff and player/volunteers.

The camps are open to youngsters from kindergarten through 5th grade. Cost for each camp is $110. Attendees can make this a full-day camp by purchasing a Recreation Camp “Add-on” for $75.00.) Sessions run from 9 a.m. until noon each day.

For registration and other information, visit https://www.angelina.edu/camproadrunner/ and look under the “Athletic Camps” section for the desired sport.

Following are the dates and locations by sport:

Baseball – June 3-5, 9 a.m. until 12 p.m., Poland Field on the AC campus.

Softball – June 10-13, Lady Roadrunner Field on the AC campus.

Basketball – June 10-13, June 24-27, July 15-18, Shands Gymnasium on the AC campus.

Soccer – June 10-13, July 15-18, AC Soccer Complex on the AC campus.

Baseball Holding Evaluation Camp in June

In an effort to find more future Roadrunners, the AC baseball team will hold another evaluation camp for prospective players ages 16 and older on Wednesday, June12, 2024. 

The fee for the camp is $40.00.

Here’s the link to registration and other information:

https://angelina.prestosports.com/general/2023-24/releases/acbsbevluationcampsmayjune2024

Men’s Soccer Holding Evaluation Camp in June

The Roadrunner men’s soccer program – coming off back-to-back appearances in the NJCAA Division I National Tournament – also is holding an evaluation session for prospective players on Saturday, June 8. Here’s the link to registration and other information:

https://angelina.prestosports.com/general/2023-24/releases/acmensocceridcampsummer2024

Changes, Upgrades Coming to AC Athletics Web Site, Social Media

Angelina College Athletics’ official website (www.angelinaathletics.com) and all related social media will be getting a massive, much-needed overhaul over the summer. Joining our staff are some true website and graphics wizards, and they’re going to help with the redesign and upkeep of all our forms of internet and social media presence going forward.

We’ll send out word once we have everything ready to launch.

Guy Davis Golf Tournament Date, Location Set

The 17th Annual Guy Davis Golf Tournament has a date now, along with a temporary change in location.

The tournament, hosted by the Roadrunner Foundation, serves as the biggest fund-raiser for all our AC Athletics programs.

This year’s tournament will take place on Saturday, August 17, with the pre-tournament kickoff dinner taking place on Friday, August 16.

Because of the ongoing course renovations at Crown Colony Country Club – the usual site for the tournament – this year’s golf will take place at the Neches Pines Golf Course in Diboll, Texas.

Crown Colony will still serve as the site for the kickoff dinner.

We’ll send out more details as the event draws nearer.

Pro Basketball Player Meets Legend

Sooo…a pro basketball player steps into an elevator and encounters a real legend…

While the Dallas Mavericks were playing their NBA Western Conference Finals series in Minnesota against the Timberwolves, Mavs star Luka Dončić entered an elevator and encountered Lady Roadrunner legend and current Phoenix Mercury (WNBA) player Natasha Mack.

No doubt whatsoever he was just as impressed with her as we at Angelina College are. (Contributed image provided)

For any other information, contact Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu.

We’ll see you at the games.

Gary Stallard
Email: gstallard@angelina.edu.
Phone: (936) 465-4614

2024 Hurricane Season Could Set Records ─ Critical to Get Ready Now

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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NOAA predicts as many as 25 named storms and 7 major hurricanes from June 1 through November 30

It’s time to get ready for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season which experts predict could bring a record-setting number of storms and landfalls to the Southeast and Gulf coasts.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts there is an 85% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season which could see 17 to 25 named storms with 8 to 13 becoming hurricanes and as many as 7 developing into major hurricanes. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.

According to NOAA, the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity due to a confluence of factors, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation.

CLIMATE CRISIS According to the U.S. government’s Fifth National Climate Assessment, the continued rise in the intensity of hurricanes can be tied to the climate crisis. The increase in hurricane activity this year is thanks to a warmer Atlantic Ocean and the possible development of La Niña conditions. In addition, Atlantic weather patterns could result in more hurricanes making landfall.

The number of billion-dollar disasters in the U.S. has increased 85% in just the last decade as disasters grow in frequency and intensity, and hurricanes are eight of the 10 most costly weather disasters in U.S. history.

More than 2.5 million people across the country were forced from their homes by weather-related disasters in 2023, with more than a third displaced for longer than a month. These powerful storms not only cause problems for people in coastal areas but can also cause damage hundreds of miles inland. Communities in the possible path of these storms need to get ready now.

GET READY NOW The American Red Cross is preparing to respond to hurricanes this season and urges families to get ready too. Red Cross readiness includes having a sufficient number of trained disaster workers available, an adequate inventory of relief supplies and technology, programs and systems ready to provide assistance to individuals and communities in need. In addition, the Red Cross builds and supports relationships with our disaster partners all year long to help us deliver services when needed.

It’s critical to make your own emergency preparations. Check out the important information available at these links to help get your household ready for the upcoming hurricane season:

  • STEPS FOR OLDER ADULTS If you need extra attention during an emergency, planning ahead is crucial. Consider what you may need if the power goes out, you have to stay home for two weeks or more, or if you have to evacuate. What help do you need and who can help you.
  • PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Individuals with mobility challenges and hearing, learning or seeing disabilities might face additional complications during an emergency, which means planning ahead is critical. Create a personal support network and make a plan centered around what help you may need.
  • DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies. Pet owners can download the Red Cross Pet First Aid app for more information on how to include pets in emergency preparedness plans and step-by-step instructions for first aid emergencies and more.
  • BUILD A FIRST AID KIT To be prepared for emergencies, keep a first aid kit in your home, your car, carry one with you and know where they are located at your workplace.
  • HELP YOUR COMMUNITY ─ VOLUNTEER Hurricane season is just ahead and we need help supporting families and communities who may be impacted by these more frequent, intense disasters. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to get started. Support your neighbors and community in their time of need. Training is free but your gift of time and talent is priceless.
  • SUPPORT DISASTER RELIEF You can help people affected by disasters like hurricanes, flooding and countless other crises by making a donation to support Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

Analyzing Your Pond’s Water

By
Cary Sims
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New landowners or landowners with a new pond often have questions about the quality of the water that they want to use in for fish production, irrigation, or to water livestock.

There can be a wide variance in water quality and what makes water suitable for fish production may have little to do with water that is good for irrigation and, furthermore, is different from what is acceptable for livestock or wildlife.

Without any laboratory testing, visually study your pond and look at the vegetation, look for small fish, and certainly look for frogs, crayfish (crawfish, craw-dads), insects, snails and such.  Small fish and aquatic invertebrates are very sensitive to contaminants and imbalances in nutrients. The presence of all of these is a good indicator of a healthy ecosystem.

Obviously, the presence of young fish in your pond means that older fish are healthy and reproducing. Flip over a log or rock along the shore and look for insects, snails, and any kind of insect larvae. These small creatures survive on algae and even smaller invertebrates and are an excellent basis of the pond’s health. Additionally, these insects are often the food source for your larger fish and will aid in the health of your fish.

If raising fish is your primary objective, the pH and alkalinity should be your first constraint to study. Fish grow best when the water is at least 6.5 pH with an alkalinity of 20 ppm. Most Extension offices in Texas have kits to test for these two parameters. At my office in Angelina County, I offer these for free.

Irrigation water used on gardens, lawns, hay meadows, or orchards is concerned with the presence of salts, its pH, and nutrient levels. Some water sources may be naturally high in nutrient concentrations that, while one would think could be beneficial, may have too much of something that harms plants. The pH of water can also be extremely acidic or alkaline and affect the plants or certainly the soils in which the plants are growing.

A life-long county resident reached out to me with questions about the water in a pond on property she has recently purchased. She had some results from our wonderful, local river authority’s lab, the Angelina/Neches River Authority. She had the values of several nutrients, the pH, and alkalinity.

The results she received showed higher that normal levels of the following elements: magnesium, iron, manganese, and lead.

Now three of these elements are in fact plant nutrients and are necessary for plant health. The high levels reported suggests an influx of nutrients from accumulated plant material or runoff from nutrient sources upstream.

When studying what was upstream, only a pasture with livestock could be found. This was likely the source of those nutrients.

Of more concern was the presence of lead, even though it was far less than 1 part per million. The lab reports indicated a level higher than what was drinkable but this was a pond in the middle of forest and was not ever going to be used for drinking. The levels did fall below any concerns for fish or vegetation.

The source? An old pond such as this very well could have accumulated lead from old fishing weights or lead shot that was once used in hunting waterfowl. Even though lead shot was banned when hunting ducks, geese, and other waterfowl nationwide in 1991, lead can take decades, even up to 100’s of years to break down.

If you want to get technical and have a laboratory look at your pond water, you have options. Similar to water well testing, our local Angelina/Neches River Authority (ANRA) has some excellent tests. The Texas A&M Soil and Water Laboratory is another place to test your water for its chemical properties.

If you live in and around Angelina County, you can submit water samples to the Angelina Neches River Authority’s (ANRA) lab for analysis. For pond water, their “Basic Water Scan Package” looks at 12 parameters. These include alkalinity, chloride, fluoride, nitrates, nitrites, pH, sulfate, hardness, and more. Additionally, the Basic Water Scan will look for these metals: calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and lead. Note that all these metals except lead are in fact nutrients necessary for plant growth and are in the multivitamin I take each morning!

If you are interested in more information on either of these tests, reach out to ANRA at 936-632-7795 or email the lab at lab@anra.org. ANRA does plenty of other testing that may be of interest. Their full website can be accessed at www.anra.org.

The “drinkability” water test that looks for the presence of E. coli in potable water would not be needed. Any pond water would be expected to be full of bacteria and other microbes unsuitable for drinking.

If you are looking to examine your pond’s water for potential irrigation, consider the Soil, Water, and Forage Testing Laboratory at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in College Station, Texas. You can reach the Laboratory at Texas A&M at (979) 321-5960 or email the lab at soiltesting@ag.tamu.edu.  Their full website can be accessed at https//soiltesting.tamu.edu.

Protecting Your Home: Steps to Minimize Damage During a Hurricane

By
Lee Allen Miller
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As hurricane season looms, it’s crucial for homeowners in Texas Forest Country to take proactive measures to protect their homes from potential damage. Hurricanes can bring devastating winds, heavy rain, and flooding, all of which can wreak havoc on your property. Here are essential steps you can take to secure your home, minimize damage, and ensure the safety of your family.

Securing Windows and Doors

1. Install Storm Shutters

  • Tip: Install permanent storm shutters made of aluminum or steel for the best protection. If storm shutters are not available, use plywood panels as a temporary measure.
  • How-To: Cut plywood to fit each window and door, ensuring they are securely fastened. The panels should overlap the window frames by at least four inches.

2. Reinforce Garage Doors

  • Tip: Strengthen garage doors to withstand high winds. If your garage door is old or weak, consider replacing it with a hurricane-resistant model.
  • How-To: Install braces across the inside of the garage door or retrofit it with horizontal and vertical reinforcement kits.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks

  • Tip: Prevent water from entering your home by sealing gaps around windows, doors, and other openings with caulk or weather stripping.
  • How-To: Inspect the exterior of your home and seal any visible cracks or gaps with a high-quality exterior-grade caulk.

Reinforcing the Roof

1. Inspect and Repair the Roof

  • Tip: Regularly inspect your roof for damaged or loose shingles and make necessary repairs to prevent wind from lifting them off.
  • How-To: Replace missing or damaged shingles and ensure they are securely fastened. Pay special attention to the edges of the roof, as these are most vulnerable to wind damage.

2. Use Hurricane Straps and Clips

  • Tip: Reinforce your roof with hurricane straps or clips to keep it attached to the walls of your home during high winds.
  • How-To: Install metal straps or clips that connect the roof to the wall structure, providing additional strength and stability.

3. Apply a Roof Sealant

  • Tip: Use a roof sealant to create a waterproof barrier that protects your home from heavy rain and leaks.
  • How-To: Apply a silicone or elastomeric roof coating to the entire surface of your roof, paying special attention to seams and joints.

Protecting Against Flooding

1. Elevate Utilities and Appliances

  • Tip: Raise utilities such as water heaters, furnaces, and electrical panels above potential flood levels to prevent water damage.
  • How-To: Place these items on elevated platforms or install them on higher floors of your home if possible.

2. Install Sump Pumps with Battery Backup

  • Tip: Install a sump pump in your basement or crawl space to remove water that accumulates during a flood. Ensure the pump has a battery backup in case of power outages.
  • How-To: Position the sump pump in the lowest part of your basement or crawl space, and connect it to a discharge pipe that directs water away from your home.

3. Use Sandbags and Flood Barriers

  • Tip: Place sandbags or portable flood barriers around the perimeter of your home to keep floodwaters at bay.
  • How-To: Stack sandbags in a pyramid formation around doors, windows, and other entry points. Ensure the bags are tightly packed and sealed to form an effective barrier.

4. Maintain Proper Drainage

  • Tip: Ensure that gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems are clear and functioning properly to direct water away from your home.
  • How-To: Regularly clean gutters and downspouts, and make sure they extend far enough from your foundation. Inspect and maintain yard drains and French drains.

By taking these steps to secure your home, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage during a hurricane. Stay informed, stay prepared, and protect your property and loved ones from the potentially devastating impacts of these powerful storms. For more detailed guidance and resources, visit the National Hurricane Center and Home Depot’s Hurricane Preparedness Guide.

Kickoff with the Chamber (Angelina County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

Join us Wednesday, June 5 for a “Kickoff with the Chamber” event to officially launch the Alzheimer’s Association walk season. The Kickoff event starts at 11:30 AM and will be followed by a luncheon featuring guest speaker Valena Spradley. To attend the lunch, please register here >>> bit.ly/Kickoff060524

Location:
900 Crown Colony Drive

Building a Hurricane Emergency Kit: What You Need to Have

By
Lee Allen Miller
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As hurricane season approaches, ensuring that you and your family are prepared for any potential emergencies is essential. One of the most critical steps in hurricane preparedness is assembling a comprehensive emergency kit. This kit should contain everything you need to survive during and after a hurricane, especially if you’re without power or access to basic services for several days. Here’s a detailed guide on what to include in your hurricane emergency kit, based on recommendations from Ready.gov and the CDC.

Fallen down big tree on a house after hurricane Ian in Florida. Consequences of natural disaster.

Essential Items for Your Emergency Kit

1. Water

  • Amount: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
  • Tip: Consider including water purification tablets or a portable water filter in case you need to purify additional water.

2. Food

  • Types: A three-day supply of non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dry cereals, energy bars, peanut butter, and dried fruits.
  • Tip: Include a manual can opener and utensils. Choose items that do not require refrigeration or cooking.

3. Medications

  • Prescription medications: Ensure you have at least a seven-day supply of essential prescription medications.
  • Over-the-counter medications: Include pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids, and laxatives.
  • First aid supplies: A basic first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, and a thermometer.

4. Tools and Supplies

  • Flashlights: One or more flashlights with extra batteries.
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: A NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert to stay informed about the latest weather updates and emergency information.
  • Multi-purpose tool: Useful for various tasks, from opening cans to basic repairs.
  • Whistle: To signal for help if needed.
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape: To create a makeshift shelter if necessary.
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties: For personal sanitation.

5. Personal Hygiene Items

  • Supplies: Soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrush and toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, diapers (if applicable), and personal hygiene items.

6. Important Documents

  • Types: Copies of insurance policies, identification, bank account records, and other critical documents stored in a waterproof container.
  • Tip: Consider creating digital copies of these documents stored on a secure cloud service or a USB drive.

7. Clothing and Bedding

  • Clothing: Include at least one change of clothes per person, sturdy shoes, and rain gear.
  • Bedding: Sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows.

8. Special Needs Items

  • Infants: Baby formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream.
  • Elderly: Extra eyeglasses, hearing aid batteries, and other essential supplies.
  • Pets: Food, water, medications, leash, carrier, and vaccination records.

9. Cash and Important Keys

  • Cash: Small bills are preferable since ATMs and credit card machines may not be functional during power outages.
  • Keys: Extra keys for your home and car.

10. Entertainment Items

  • Supplies: Books, games, puzzles, or other activities to help pass the time if you are without power or confined indoors.

Final Tips

  • Regular Maintenance: Check your emergency kit regularly to ensure that items are up to date and replace any expired food, water, and medications.
  • Personalize Your Kit: Tailor the contents of your kit to meet the specific needs of your family members, including dietary requirements and medical conditions.
  • Stay Informed: Keep a list of important emergency contacts and local emergency services. Follow local news and weather updates to stay informed about any impending storms.

Assembling a well-stocked hurricane emergency kit can make all the difference in ensuring your family’s safety and comfort during a hurricane. By preparing ahead of time, you can reduce stress and be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way. For more detailed information and resources on hurricane preparedness, visit Ready.gov and the CDC.

Stay safe this hurricane season, and remember that preparation is key.

Hurricane Preparedness 101: Essential Tips for Every Household
Protecting Your Home: Steps to Minimize Damage During a Hurricane

Governor Abbott Proclaims 2024 Hurricane Preparedness Week in Texas

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today raised awareness about the dangers of hurricanes and the precautions Texans can take as hurricane season approaches by proclaiming May 26-June 1, 2024 as Hurricane Preparedness Week in Texas.

“With hurricane season approaching, it is crucial for all Texans to be prepared for the potential of devastating and powerful storms that may reach our shores,” said Governor Abbott. “This Hurricane Preparedness Week, Texans are encouraged to learn more about safety measures and make an emergency plan to protect themselves and their loved ones from the destructive power of hurricanes. By implementing proactive measures, we can stave off the worst eventualities, protect the lives and well-being of all Texans, and keep our great state safe.”

In support of hurricane preparedness efforts in the state, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has reviewed the appropriate emergency management planning documents to ensure they are updated to meet community needs in the event of a hurricane. TDEM has also planned its full-scale annual hurricane exercise to include partners from all levels of government and the private sector.

The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs June 1 through November 30. Texans can visit the Texas Hurricane Center for information on proactive steps to take before, during, and after a hurricane. Texans can also visit TexasReady.gov for additional hurricane safety tips and tdem.texas.gov/prepare for preparedness information.

Read the Governor’s proclamation.

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