28th Street in Long Beach, Miss. still flooded after Hurricane Ida on Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021. (Hunter Dawkins/The Gazebo Gazette via AP)
The Gazebo Gazette
HARRISON COUNTY (GG) — With the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season on June 1, the Harrison County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is reminding residents that early preparation is critical to protect life and property in the face of severe weather.
Hurricanes and tropical storms can bring more than just wind and rain. Power outages, flooded roads, and business closures can last for several days after a storm. Harrison County EMA advises every household to stock emergency supplies to last at least 3 to 5 days. This includes:
- Bottled Water
- Non-perishable food
- Prescription medications
- First aid supplies
- Flashlights, batteries, and personal hygiene items
“You may not be able to access stores or pharmacies for several days after a hurricane,” said Matt Stratton, Director of Harrison County EMA. “Now is the time to build your emergency kit and make sure it’s ready before a storm is even detected.
Each household and business should also develop a customized hurricane preparedness plan. That plan should include:
- Know your evacuation zone
- Identify at least two safe locations you could stay during a storm
- Make a list of items to pack or secure before a storm arrives
Harrison County EMA is also encouraging residents to take steps to protect their property now.
- Get an insurance check–up to understand your coverage
- Take photos of valuables
- Make minor upgrades to strengthen your home, such as securing loose items, trimming trees, and checking shutters or windows
“Storms don’t wait-and neither should you,” expressed Stratton. “Taking action now gives you and your family the best chance to stay safe when a hurricane threatens our area.”
Accurate information is key to good decision-making during emergencies. Residents should set their phones and devices to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAS) and regularly check trusted sources for updates. Always rely on official forecasts from the National Hurricane Center, the National Weather Service New Orleans, and guidance from your local emergency management official.
Stay connected by following Harrison County Board of Supervisors on social media, visiting the official website at www.harrisoncountyms.gov/emafor tools, alerts, and local evacuation guides. For real–time, Harrison County alerts, enroll by sending a text to 99411 with the word HARCOINFO. Please encourage your friends, family and neighbors to enroll.
