Preparation

Keep your property and your family safe during the storm using the preparation tips and resources below.

• Find helpful safety tips and resources from the National Weather Service.
• The Red Cross has a number of safety and preparedness guides for different types of severe weather.
• If you’re located in Texas, refer to the Texas Office of Emergency Management for specific disaster preparedness and recovery in the state.

Be prepared

• Before severe weather strikes, prepare your home with insulation and weather stripping. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Review your insurance coverage and take pictures of your building and/or office - inside and out.
• Prepare your car, fill your gas tank, check your tires, and stock your car with an emergency kit in case of stranding.

Before a severe weather event

• Ensure your employees' contact information is up-to-date and that you have a plan in place to communicate afterwards.
• Define what you need to secure your building, important equipment and who will help; outline specific tasks and conduct a training session.
• Consider developing a system to authorize re-entry to company facilities.
• Prepare for potential power outages, update your phone number and email address, and consider installing a generator.
• Construct a list of vendors that provide disaster recovery services.
• Back up files and data, and store records in a safe area.
• Update outgoing voice messages, informing employees and customers of the status of company operations.
• Close your offices in time to allow employees to secure their homes, obtain supplies and evacuate if necessary.

For businesses

• Pay attention to the news, media and instructions from public officials.
• Gather necessary supplies: food, extra clothing, generator, First Aid Kit, etc.
• If possible, fully charge cell phones, laptops, and any other electronics.
• Park vehicles in safe, protected areas.
• Secure doors, windows and other openings.