 A satellite photo depicts Hurricane Rita after she came ashore in Southeast Texas in 2005. Courtesy photo “All Texans should be mindful of the dangers presented by hurricanes, stay informed about current threats and take steps toward preparedness,” Perry said. “While residents along the coast are among the first impacted by a hurricane, we must keep in mind that these massive storms can cause flooding and tornadoes hundreds of miles from the coastal areas where they make landfall.” Families should designate a place to go in case of evacuation, develop an emergency plan for communicating with relatives and friends in other areas, and put together a “readiness kit” of important supplies, including items such as a battery-operated radio and flashlight. Texans are also urged to heed all warnings, information and instructions provided by emergency management personnel. In fall 2005, Perry appointed the Task Force on Evacuation, Transportation and Logistics to take testimony from local officials, emergency response personnel and citizens on lessons learned from Hurricane Rita. In March 2006, the governor issued an executive order implementing the task force recommendations, which focus on five key areas: the evacuation of people with special needs; command, control and communications; traffic management; fuel availability; and public awareness. The Governor’s Division of Emergency Management hosted the 2007 State Hurricane Preparedness Conference in Galveston recently, where local, state and federal officials and the emergency response community joined to discuss preparations for the upcoming hurricane season. “State officials and first responders have collaboratively enhanced the state’s hurricane preparedness and response plans following the recent devastating hurricane seasons,” said Perry. “But there is still more we must do. Advanced planning and preparation by officials and residents are essential to protecting property, reducing risk and ultimately, saving lives.” For more information about hurricane preparedness, visit the Governor’s Division of Emergency Management Web site at www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem.
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