Harris County Hurricane Preparation Guide

Harris County's Before the Storm guide helps residents prepare for hurricanes and severe weather. This comprehensive resource covers everything from emergency kits to property protection. The county actively trims trees, clears drainage ditches, and maintains rescue vehicles year-round to protect our communities. During storm season, this preparation becomes critical for keeping families safe. The guide walks residents through essential steps: creating emergency supply kits with three days of food, water, and medicine; writing down emergency phone numbers; and making plans for pets and vehicles. Property preparation includes clearing yards of loose items, covering windows with storm shutters or plywood, and filling containers with clean drinking water. The county emphasizes special planning for residents with medical needs or transportation challenges. This matters because Harris County faces frequent severe weather threats. Proper preparation saves lives and reduces property damage. When hurricanes approach, prepared families can evacuate safely or shelter in place effectively. The guide connects residents to county services like drainage maintenance and rescue operations. To use this resource, visit the Harris County website for detailed checklists and emergency kit samples. Review your family emergency plan regularly. Contact local emergency services if you have special needs during storms. Start preparing before storm season begins.

- Trims trees to protect you and your property- Removes trash and debris from ditches and gutters to prevent clogged drains during heavy rains- Maintains a fleet of rescue vehicles- Works with the public to identify road hazards - Write down emergency phone numbers – keep them on the refrigerator or near every phone in your house and program them into your cell phone - Prepare an emergency supply kit. Click here for a sample. - Pet owners: Pre-identify shelters, a pet-friendly hotel, or an out-of-town friend or relative where you can take your pets in case of an evacuation - Have a food and water supply for at least three days - Have emergency medicine supply for at least three days - Review your emergency plan with your family - Stay up to date on storm coverage Click here for more information. - Call the hospital, public health department, or local police department if you have special needs - Place pets and farm animals in a safe place Click here for more information. - Fill your car’s gas tank - Move cars and trucks into your garage or under a cover - Keep an emergency kit in your car - If you don’t own a car, consider making plans with friends or family to get a ride if you need to evacuate - Clear your yard: Ensure there is no debris that may blow around during the storm and damage your home; move bicycles, lawn furniture, grills, propane tanks, and building material inside or under a shelter - Cover windows and doors: Use storm shutters or nail plywood pieces to outside window frames to protect windows from shattering - Be prepared to turn off your power - Fill containers with clean drinking water and fill up sinks and bathtubs - Check to ensure your carbon monoxide (CO) detector battery is fully charged