The 2019 Hurricane Season officially began on June 1. With a tropical system bearing down on the Gulf Coast, we wanted to take this opportunity to provide resources to ensure you are properly prepared for this year’s storm season.

1. Create or update an emergency supply kit for your home and family. Once you look at the basic items, consider what unique needs your family may have, such as pets (download pet emergency checklist) or seniors (download disaster preparedness guide for seniors).
2. Make a plan
   1. Sign up for emergency alerts through your local government
      1. You can find a list of links to Houston-area alert systems here:
         1. City Systems
         2. County Systems
         3. School District Alerts
   2. Have a plan in case you need to evacuate
      1. Print out this map (yes, print because your cell phone may not work) and highlight your evacuation route from both home and work.
      2. Write down important addresses and phone numbers on the back of hurricane evacuation map you just printed. BE SURE to write down a safe place destination address and phone number!
      3. Put a copy in every vehicle at your household and show each member in your household the map and information on the back.
   3. 1. Make sure you and your family know all the important numbers. Use this family communication plan card that you can print out and leave in your wallet.
   4. Other info:
      1. We suggest following the experts at SpaceCityWeather.com for their no-nonsense, straightforward weather forecasting.
      2. Check out www.ready.gov for more detailed information on preparing your home and family for any number of emergencies. They also have links to risks and flooding maps, as well as evacuation zones.
      3. In case of flooding while you’re out and about: turn around, don’t drown. Our first responders will already have their hands full. We don’t want to see you on the news, or worse!
      4. ARTISTS: If you have an artistic practice (whether amateur or professional), check out the HARF Hurricane Preparedness Guide and the CERF+ Studio Safety Guide for tips on how to safeguard your work.