How to Be Prepared to Avoid Disaster

Click here for Weather Advisories from National Weather Service

How to Prepare for a Hurricane:

Below are tips to remember before, during and after a hurricane.
Before a Hurricane:

  • Build or restock an emergency preparedness kit.  Be sure to include key items like a flashlight, batteries, cash and first aid supplies.
  • Bring in items, such as outdoor furniture, that the wind can blow away.
  • Have drinking water ready for use. 
  • Be sure to keep your primary vehicle in good working condition and keep the gas tank full. Stock it with emergency supplies and a fresh change of clothes.
  • Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power – even consider building an emergency communication plan. 
  • Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances. 


During a Hurricane:

  • Stay away from windows as flying glass from broken windows could be dangerous.
  • If you are outside, move to higher ground and do not walk, swim or drive through floodwater.
  • If power is lost, be sure to use a flashlight. Using candles can pose an unnecessary fire risk. 
  • Turn your refrigerator or freezer to its coldest setting and open it only when necessary. If you lose power, this could help preserve your food supplies.
  • Watch or listen to a TV or radio for the latest weather updates or emergency instructions. Many city or county websites also often supply updates every 30 minutes or so. 
  • After a Hurricane:
  • Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you over and fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
  • Avoid any floodwater that may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. In addition, be extra vigilant as floodwater could be hiding dangerous debris and areas where the ground has washed away. 
  • Only return home when authorities indicate it is safe. Be sure to keep in touch with friends and family so they know that you are safe.

Fire Safety:

Montgomery County Fire Marshall

Magnolia Fire Department

Home Ignition Zones and Defensible Space and other useful resources – Texas A & M Forest Service

Traffic Alerts:

Montgomery County Police Reporter – you can sign up for Magnolia traffic alerts

Texas Department of Transportation – input your zip code for the specific location.

Download the App called Pulse Point. Set the notifications for Montgomery County. Pulse Point implementations are typically championed and led by local Fire/EMS agencies.

Health Issues:

Corona Virus Information

Social Media Safety:

Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks – to become aware of suspicious links and activity online

Home Safety

First Aid Check List (Thank you for sending this link to us, Liam!)