Based upon current tracking, the Greater Houston area should be out of the direct track of both Marco and Laura. However, we always stress preparation and so here are a few good reminders:

IN PREPARATION

 
IF YOU ARE A SENIOR &/OR DISABLED OR KNOW OF SOMEONE IN THE TEXAS STORM WATCH AREA?
Do you or anyone you know need some assistance during times of an emergency event? The State of Texas presents the STEAR program. The STEAR program is a free registry that provides local emergency planners and emergency responders with additional information on the needs in their community. Texas communities use the registry information in different ways. Registering yourself in the STEAR registry DOES NOT guarantee that you will receive a specific service during an emergency. Available services will vary by community. For more information on how your community will use information in the STEAR registry, contact your local emergency management office.
Who Should Register?
  • People with Disabilities
  • People who have limited mobility
  • People who have communication barriers
  • People who require additional medical assistance during an emergency event
  • People who require transportation assistance
  • People who require personal care assistance
Please go to this link: Texas STEAR Program Registration or call 2-1-1
 
ARE YOU SET UP TO GET EMERGENCY ALERTS FROM READYHARRIS?
if not, please go to this page and sign up today! Make sure to enable emergency alerts on all mobile devices.
 
IF YOU NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE TO HELP WITH ANXIETY OR FEAR?
You may contact our staff by calling 713-986-7832 or emailing [email protected].
 
DO YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY KIT PREPARED?
Here are some guidelines on what to include:
Don’t forget to include your prescriptions and medical supplies when putting together your kit or when packing to evacuate.
Please remember to use social distancing and wear a face covering if you have to go out to shop.
 
MOST OF HOUSTON IS NOT IN AN EVACUATION ZONE, BUT YOU CAN CHECK HERE:
If you are in an evacuation area, make sure that you have a full tank of gas, phone chargers for your car, and a destination (friends/hotel) with a printed map and contact numbers in case you have communication issues.
 
HERE IS ONE OF OUR FAVORITE WEBSITES FOR WATCHING WEATHER. THEY ARE VERY GOOD AT EXPLAINING WHAT’S EXPECTED!
 

DURING OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE EVENT

 
FOR EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE OR RESCUE CALL 9-1-1
If you are unable to get through to 9-1-1, you may want to try the Cajun Navy via their site: Cajun Navy Rescue Request
Please note that they are a BACKUP resource and will also refer you to 9-1-1.
 
IF YOU NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE TO HELP WITH ANXIETY OR FEAR?
Our sister agency in Dallas (972-437-9950) will be taking calls if we are unable to provide service due to the weather.
 
SHELTERING DURING COVID
Social distancing is going to be an important piece of your plan. Please remember to keep at least 6′ from non-family members and to use your face coverings and wash your hands after you have encountered any high-touch areas. If you feel ill, please notify medical authorities so that they can take appropriate measures to keep you and others safe! If you are in a shelter situation, please be a good role model for your children and others by following the needed procedures. We know this is a high-stress situation, but you will get through this! If you have children, please use this resource for guidance:
If you have a pet, make sure to have a copy of their health record and shots, a muzzle, leash, tags and a current picture in case you are separated. Make sure your pet carrier has your pet’s name, description and your phone number on it. Bringing your pets dishes, food, bed and a few familiar toys will help to manage their anxiety.
 
IF YOU ARE AFFECTED BY A STORM AND ARE IN THE GREATER HOUSTON AREA
Please visit the JFS Houston Disaster Assistance site (https://www.jfshouston.org/disaster-services.php?) as we will be updating resources and recovery information on this page as it becomes available. Should you not be in our catchment area, please call 2-1-1 and ask who is the Disaster Case Management agency closest to your home.
 
Should you have any questions or concerns no addressed in this communication, please hit reply and let us know how we can help and we will do our best to find you an answer.