ATLANTA - June 1 marks the start of another hurricane season in the U.S., even as the recovery from the historic tornado outbreaks continues in the southeast. NOAA's Climate Prediction Center has estimated six to 10 hurricanes this season, with three to six of those expected to be Category 3 or above. FEMA is prepared to respond to the needs of states in hurricane-prone areas, but any federal response needs to be paired with citizen preparedness- in businesses and at home.
"You can't know far ahead of time when it will be your community in the path of a hurricane. If you wait until the storm is bearing down on you, you may forget important things," said FEMA Regional Administrator Phil May. "Plan ahead, stay safe and stay informed."
Being prepared makes a big difference in disasters, but it doesn't have to come at a big cost. A quick look around your house or apartment can get you almost everything you need to build an emergency supply kit, which should include three days of food and water, prescription medication, battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight, spare batteries, first aid kit, can opener, local maps, moist towelettes, toilet paper, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation. A complete list of recommended items for an emergency supply kit can be found at www.ready.gov, FEMA's emergency preparedness website.
Having the proper supplies early in a disaster is vital, but so is having a communication plan to stay in touch with family members. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency. You should also share your evacuation plans, so others know that you are out of harm's way.
Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government, such as shelters and evacuation routes. Have different sources of information in case one is not working- don't rely on just TV, radio, or the internet. A smartphone can be a great resource as well. FEMA's mobile site, m.fema.gov, allows disaster survivors to apply for assistance, locate Disaster Recovery Centers and Red Cross shelters.
Finally, know your risk in a disaster. While FEMA assistance can help you get back on your feet, it won't make you whole. To protect your investment in your home and possessions, you need insurance and an understanding of what is and isn't covered. A typical homeowner's policy may cover damage to your home from winds, but it won't cover damage due to storm surge and inland flooding. A separate flood insurance policy can be purchased, often from the same agent from whom you get your homeowners insurance. Flood insurance can be bought separately for a structure (home or business) and personal possessions (contents)-so renters can purchase flood insurance, too.
Go to www.floodsmart.gov and learn about your flood risk now. It takes 30 days for a policy to take effect, so don't wait.
FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
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