Hurricane Preparedness

During hurricane season, being prepared is the best thing you can do to protect your family.

Get a Game Plan

Following are web sites and contact information for various federal and state agencies:

Federal Emergency Management Agency
http://www.fema.gov/

Governor's Office of Homeland Security:
www.getagameplan.org

Department of Transportation Hurricane Evacuation Routes:
http://www.dotd.state.la.us/maps/

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
http://www.noaa.gov/

The following is a list of ten tips I have compiled to help you prepare for the potential threat of storms that may approach in the future.

Top Tips to Be Prepared:

  • Make plans to protect your property such as storm shutters or plywood for windows. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. Bring things indoors including lawn furniture, toys, trash cans or anything that could fly through a window.
  • Learn evacuation routes and contraflow procedures. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you need to evacuate. You can get information on the Hurricane Evacuation Routes at http://www.dotd.state.la.us/maps/.
  • Gather personal documents, including Social Security cards, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, etc. Make a record of these documents and all valuable possessions.
  • Keep your automobile fully fueled; if electric power is cut off, gas stations may not be able to operate pumps for several days.
  • Be prepared to survive on your own for a few days. Assemble a disaster kit. Include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, blankets, clothing, food and water, prescription medications and medical supplies.
  • Talk to your family about the dangers hurricanes can present. Plan a centralized meeting place for your family in case you are separated from one another. Choose an out of state family member or friend for everyone to contact and check in with.
  • If you are receiving Social Security or Veterans Benefits make sure you have direct deposit. This will ensure you receive all of your benefits if you have to evacuate. The Social Security Administration's telephone number is 1-800-772-1213 or visit their website at www.socialsecurity.gov. The Veterans Administration's telephone number is 1-877-222-8387 or visit their website at www.va.gov.
  • Know how to shut off utilities. Know where gas pilots are located and how the heating and air-conditioning system works. If you have any questions, contact your local utility company.
  • Visit my website http://www.scalise.house.gov/ for continued updates.

During storm season it is important to pay attention to updates from the local media outlets. Also, feel free to contact my office with any needs or concerns you may have. If any of our district offices are ever required to evacuate, you can always reach my staff in our Washington, D.C. office.

Congressman Steve Scalise's Congressional Offices: