Storms, and even hurricane season itself, can be scary. Some of us lived through traumatic natural disasters. Others have moved here from other parts of the country (or the world) and have heard harrowing stories of our community coming together and helping each other during big storms. No matter your perspective on hurricane season, it is a common source of anxiety for Fort Bend County residents.
We are not helpless in the face of disaster. The office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management has plans in place and established relationships with response organizations which spring to action when disaster strikes. You can’t sit back and hope for the government to help you, however. There are things you can do, even today, to make sure you’re better able to weather any storm.
Check in with family and friends
During severe weather, some people need the additional care and support of loved ones. Be the one to reach out and communicate with your loved ones to make sure they are alright. A phone call, text, or email message can go a long way for someone who has anxiety about storms or may need extra help in a disaster.
Consider people who are sick or elderly, or children who may be alone
Especially consider people who are sick and may require a little more help if the situation worsens. Encourage them to register with Enable Fort Bend (www.enablefortbend.com) , the disaster emergency assistance registry for people in the county with functional and medical needs. Also consider elderly friends, family members, or neighbors who may appreciate hearing from you and may have additional needs during a disaster.
Have a plan for communicating
When you reach out, make a plan with people for connecting if adverse conditions develop. Great tools are things like a group text thread, a pre-set time to call, or a group email. Also consider discussing where you could meet in person if you’re forced to evacuate, caught away from home or work, or without mobile phone or data connections when dangerous conditions develop. It is better to have a plan you don’t need than to have no plan at all!
Register for emergency alerts
You can sign up to receive emergency alerts, including automated weather alerts, from FBC Alert, Fort Bend county’s emergency notification system powered by Everbridge. For more information about FBC Alert, visit the FBC Alert page on the Homeland Security & Emergency Management website.