Hurricane season is underway
McALLEN - Safety experts advise residents of coastal areas to take steps to protect themselves before, during and after a hurricane.
The Atlantic Ocean - including the Gulf of Mexico - averages about six hurricanes per year, according to the National Weather Service.
While the Valley has not had a direct hit from a hurricane since 1980's Hurricane Allen, it has had close calls.
Regardless of the forecasts, Rio Grande Valley residents should take steps to ensure their safety in the event of a hurricane, given the region's proximity to the coast.
Authorities recommend that residents take time before, during and after storms to maintain their safety and protect their property. Before a storm, residents should:
- Board up windows with plywood.
- Trim trees around the home
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters.
When authorities order an evacuation, you should leave and follow instructions. Also, those who live in mobile homes should leave if a hurricane seems imminent. When a storm nears:
- Ensure a large supply of water is available by filling a bathtub and other large containers.
- During the storm, stay indoors, away from windows and glass doors.
- Lie under a table for protection from debris, or take refuge in a closet, hallway or interior room.
- Wen re-entering your home after a storm, use caution if it may have been damaged.
- Keep a battery-powered radio so you can listen for emergency updates.
- Watch for animals, including snakes, and use a stick to poke through debris.
- Be mindful of downed electrical lines and other hazards on the road.
Keep this guide handy during the upcoming hurricane season for other tips on how to protect your life and your property in the event of a storm.
This guide provides you with information on registering for emergency transportation, creating a family emergency plan and navigating insurance issues, among other subjects.
More information is discussed within this guide and is also available online, www.fema.gov, www.nhc.noaa.gov and www.redcross.org.
