The 2013 Hurricane Season is underway, and it is important to know key steps you can take to protect yourself, your family and your property this season.  History illustrates—especially as seen in our state—that hurricane awareness and preparedness can help reduce the impact of Mother Nature’s storms.

Know your risk: The first step in taking needed precautions is to understand how hurricanes can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you and your family. When you understand your risk, you are more apt to know how to prepare. Check the weather forecast regularly and sign up for local alerts from emergency management officials.

Take action: Develop an emergency plan based on your local hurricane, severe storms and flooding hazards and practice how and where you will evacuate if instructed by your emergency management officials. Create or update your family’s emergency supply kit, and remember to save important papers electronically in a safe place.

Be an Example: Once you have taken action, share your plan with your family and friends. Volunteer in your community for CERT (Community Emergency Response Teams) by visiting www.ready.gov/citizencorps.

Information provided by U.S. Rep. Rodney Alexander and FEMA.