Dear Friends,

 

Hurricane season is here, and we must ALL prepare.

As climate change drives more frequent and intense weather disasters, from hurricanes to extreme flooding, the Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis is here for you—before, during, and after the storm.

We recognize that decades of neglect and disinvestment have left many communities — low-income neighborhoods and communities of color — with far less protection from disaster. That’s why equity is at the center of how we prepare for, respond to, and recover from hurricanes.

We’re committed to making sure everyone has the tools and information they need to stay safe and to rebuild stronger, together.

Preparedness resources:

• Get an emergency kit, make a plan, and stay informed.

• Sign up for alerts for hurricane season updates from trusted sources at ReadyHarris.org and AlertHouston (if you live in the City of Houston).

• For more information on how to prepare, review our hurricane preparedness and evacuation guide.

• Visit Houston/Galveston, TX for updates from the National Weather Service, and sign up for its wireless emergency alerts with Apple or Android.

• If you or someone you know need assistance during a disaster, let them know about STEAR. STEAR is a program that provides local first responders with information about the needs of their community. Registration is simple and free.

When a hurricane is forecasted to impact our area:

• Monitor local TV and radio stations.

• Shop early and check your emergency essentials kit.

• Fuel your vehicles and generators.

• Refill prescriptions and other medical supplies.

• Take pictures of property and belongings for insurance purposes.

• Cover windows with plywood and buy sandbags if needed.

• Bring in all outdoor furniture or objects.

• If you have pets, make sure your emergency kit includes carriers, collars/ID, leashes, pet food, and other pet supplies ready to go.

• Charge your phone and have portable chargers available.

• Turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting.

• Know your evacuation zone and evacuation route.

If you stay in your home during a hurricane:

• Bring pets inside.

• Only use generators outdoors, NEVER inside.

• Stay away from windows.

If significant flooding occurs in your home:

• Shut off the main electric breaker.

• Bring important documents and get to a higher location.

• Do NOT use electrical or gas appliances.

If evacuation is necessary:

• Leave when your evacuation zone is announced.

• Take your emergency kit with you.

• Stay tuned to trusted sources to learn when it’s safe to return.

After a hurricane:

• Call 3-1-1 for info on transportation, infrastructure, and debris pick up.

• Call 2-1-1 for support and social services (only call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies).

• If you see a downed power line, stay away and call 713-207-2222.

• Check on family and neighbors, if safe to do so.

• Notify your insurance agent of any damage.

• 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.

• Consult community legal resources from Lone Star Legal Aid.

Make your emergency plan for you and your loved ones today. Everyone deserves to be protected, and our recovery should leave no one behind. Together, we can get ready and stay ready.

 

Sincerely,

​

Rodney Ellis