Emergency Management

Emergency Management Coordinator

Tom Merchant, 281.326.2658

Emergency Management Assistant Coordinator

Frank Coppola, 281.326.2161

Reminders - September 2010

With the fall season, there is a bit to catch up with from my point of view in emergency management:

First, it is the start of the new school year so added attention while driving is appropriate; our loved ones are not paying much attention to cars but rather the excitement of school and friends. Also remember it is against the law to use cell phones or other devices in the school zones.

Second, we are now into that time of hurricane seasons that is the most active for the Texas Coastline. It would be good to look at your plans and also check out what the schools do for emergencies. I know that CCISD has plans for all sorts of events and my suggestion is for you to ask about their plans. As I monitor weather systems that develop, I will be putting information on the city web site when I think a storm may involve our area.

Third, I recently (Aug. 17, 2010) was advised that Harris County is going to be doing aerial spraying to combat West Nile Virus. The portion of the county involve is west of the Beltway, north from 290 to 59 South. Although it is a long way from us I advise to keep on the lookout for signs it could be in our area. One such indication is dead birds: I would not handle one but would call to county to check it out. I would also encourage you to eliminate mosquito breeding habitats around your property. Things like removing empty containers that may hold water such as flowerpots, keep fresh water in bird baths and pet bowls, keep gutters cleaned. More information can be seen at the county health web site at www.hcphes.org.

Fourth, Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has an interactive hurricane evacuation map that can be accessed at www.hcoem.com. This will enhance our ability to see critical evacuation information. When you access this web site, look at the right hand side of the page for a link ”Evacuation Info”.

Fifth, I see a lot of dead branches and trees as I drive around. It would be good to take these down before the winds do and they cause damage or injury.

Seven Major Atlantic Hurricanes Predicted

The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is predicted to have between 14 to 23 tropical storms, including up to seven major hurricanes. If this outlook holds, then this season will become one of the most active on record. This forecast is based on the weakening of the El Nino which is the Pacific Ocean phenomenon that creates strong wind shear that weakens Atlantic Storms.

National Hurricane Preparedness week was May 23rd through the 29th. I hope you took the opportunity at that time to begin thinking about hurricane season and your plans in the event that we may have a storm. These plans should include what you would do if you stay and what you would do if you evacuate. It is important to plan for both ahead of time in order to avoid last minute hurried efforts. In each case, an emergency supply kit should contain the following:

1. Radio and batteries
2. Flashlight and batteries
3. Extra eye glasses
4. Bottled water
5. Non perishable food
6. Medications
7. Special items for babies and the elderly
8. Copies of important documents

Insurance protection should be a part of your hurricane protection. This should start with creating a home inventory which would include sales receipts, photos and videos. Make sure you have wind storm insurance and flood insurance.

Protect your property with window protection, secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, trim back dead wood, and just in general clean up and secure loose items.

As you all know we live in the surge zone, so it is very important to include in your plans evacuation routes and when you will leave. My advice always is that if you plan to leave then leave early. I only cover the bare minimum here and recommend you look at the City of El Lago Web site, the Harris County Office of Emergency Management Web site or the Texas Department of Public Safety Web site.

Start of the Hurricane Season News Clips

The following are courtesy of the Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management:

Yearly ritual of storm awareness, preparedness gets underway

2010 Hurricane Season Begins

Judge Ed Emmett Talks Hurricane Season

Atlantic hurricane season officially under way -- are you prepared?

Area Leaders Get Ready for Busy Storm Season

2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Officially Begins

Start Of Hurricane Season: Be Prepared

Financial Steps for Hurricane Season

Houston region closer to large storm surge project

Evacuation special needs registry is an annual 'must'

Hurricane Map Tracks Many Risks

Start Your Preparations - May 2010

Hurricane season is now upon us and the predictions for this season are for a very active (above normal) storm formation. Sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic are higher than last year. The current Colorado State University forecast predicts 15 named storms (tropical storms and hurricanes) including eight hurricanes with four above CAT 3. The good news for us is that currently the waters in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean are cooler than last year and if these waters are slow to warm, the result could be a late start for hurricanes in our regions.

At the State and County levels there are not a lot of new programs or changes to notifications, evacuations and other activities. Check the City web site (www.ellago-tx.com) since I do post noteworthy items as they occur.

As always it is a good time now to start preparing your house, yard and plans for hurricanes. The past winter has left a lot of dead branches, some dead trees and other debris in the city that can be windblown. Also, some houses have had damage to gutters and roofing materials that also present a hazard. The various community parks also are in need of "yard" maintenance. Structures that have been damaged due to the last hurricane that have not been fully repaired need to be looked at for needed cleanup. Fire damaged structures should also be looked at.

Also check the city web site for information on planning for storms and the type of preparations you can take in the event of an evacuation. In May and June, the hurricane workshops in Pasadena and Houston will be held and they are open to the general public.

Hurricane Preseason Announcements - April 2010

1. A Community Safety Fair and Hurricane Workshop are scheduled for May 22, 2010, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at the Pasadena Convention Center. This is being sponsored by our local LEPC and is open to the general public.
2. Houston Transtar has initiated a real time Web based Evacuation Status Map. This will be a good tool for reference before and during an evacuation.

Weather Terms to Know

• Hurricane Advisory: A early warning system will prepare you for a hurricane strike well in advance of hurricane watches & warnings.
• Hurricane Warning: If the danger materializes, a hurricane warning will be issued. This means that the storm has a great likelihood of directly affecting your area in 24 hours of less. Heed calls to evacuate if necessary. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.
• Hurricane Watch: An announcement of specific coastal areas that a hurricane or an incipient hurricane condition poses a possible threat, generally within 36 hours. Plan your time now.
• Storm Surge: A large dome of water up to 100 miles wide that sweeps across the coastline near where a hurricane makes landfall.
• Storm Tide: The actual level of sea water resulting from the astronomic tide combined with the storm surge.
• Tropical Depression: A tropical cyclonic (counter-clockwise) circulation with sustained surface wind speed up to 38 mph.
• Tropical Disturbance: A disturbed area of thunderstorms, tropical in origin, which is evident for 24 hours or more.
• Tropical Storm: A tropical cyclonic circulation with sustained winds of 39 mph to 73 mph.
• Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that a tropical storm poses or tropical storm conditions pose a threat to coastal areas generally within 36 hours. A tropical storm watch should normally not be issued if the system is forecast to attain hurricane strength.

When a Hurricane Threatens

• Purchase the recommended emergency supplies and place in an easy-to-access location.
• Store drinking water in anything that is clean: bathtubs, bottles, pots, etc; the water supply may become contaminated.
• Put all important paper documents, including photos, in zip lock plastic bags, and place in a portable container, such as a suitcase. It makes it easy to take with you if an evacuation is needed.
• Move important and valuable items, such as electronics, to the second floor or a high shelf to protect them from water.
• Check all battery-powered equipment. Emergency cooking facilities, lights and flashlights will be essential if utilities are interrupted.
• Secure outdoor objects that may be blown away or uprooted. Bring in all unsecured items from the outside, such as lawn chairs and barbecue pits. Place the items inside a garage.
• Plan for pets. Be sure their collars with identification are on. Check with the hotel you plan to stay at to ensure pets will be allowed.
• Secure buildings by closing and boarding up each window of your home. Tape is not enough to reduce the risk of broken glass.
• Close all interior doors. Secure and brace external doors.
• Have additional cash on hand for emergencies since ATM's may be out of service.
• Fill your vehicle's gas tank and make sure it is working properly.
• Make sure you have enough prescription medicines to outlast a storm and its aftermath.
• Use a video camera to record your home and property. It will serve as a record for the insurance company if a claim is filed.
• Listen to the advice of local officials and evacuate if they advise you to.
• Make sure you know your evacuation route. Figure out where you will go and how you will get there.
• More information can be found at prepare4disaster.com or the Houston Red Cross Web site.

Hurricane Safety Tips

Secure Your Home:

• Close and board up windows
• Remove outside antennas
• Bring in lawn furniture, toys, tools, and garbage cans. Tie down items that cannot be brought in
• Tie down propane tanks
• Turn off gas, water and electricity before you leave
• Brace garage doors
• Place boats on trailers, place near home and fill boat with water
• Lock all windows and doors
• Make arrangements for pets. If you take your pet, bring a kennel and leash

Evacuation Tips

• Keep your vehicle in good repair with a full tank of gas
• Check on friends and neighbors who may have special needs
• Take a disaster supply kit
• Persons in low-lying areas, towing boats, trailers, drive motor homes and those with special needs should leave early
• Designate a meeting point for your family should you get separated
• Have a cell phone, CB radio or other form of communication
• Limit use of cell phones for emergencies only
• Monitor local radio and television
• Don’t take unnecessary items
• Take a list of emergency contact numbers

Disaster Supply Kit

• Mechanical can opener
• Three day supply of food and water. One gallon of water per day per person
• Bedding or sleeping bags
• Bleach
• Mosquito repellant
• Extra prescription medication or refill information
• First aid kit
• Eating utensils
• Tarp, rope, duct tape
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap etc)
• Toilette paper, baby wipes
• Change of clothes
• Battery operated radio AM/FM and fresh batteries
• Flashlights
• Extra keys
• Extra eyeglasses or prescription information
• Special items such as hearing aid batteries

Red Cross Hurricane Preparedness Guide (printable)

Hurricane Evacuation Questions and Answers

How do I know when to evacuate?

• Listen to local news, radio or television.
• Be ready to follow recommendations of local officials.
• Follow storm development

Who should consider leaving before hurricane evacuation becomes mandatory for the general population?

• Those in low lying or flood prone areas.
• Those who have concerns about the structural stability of their homes, i.e. trailers or mobile homes.
• If you plan to tow a boat or trailer or drive an RV.
• People traveling with young children, elderly family members or people with special needs.

What should I do if I need help to evacuate?

• Preferably make arrangements with family, friends or neighbors.
• Call 211, to make arrangements or city hall or Lakeview Police, but don’t wait to call -- do it now.

What items are not allowed in public shelters?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Firearms or other weapons
• Non prescription drugs

How do I know where to go in an evacuation?

• Generally you wan to move away from the coastal area and well inland
• If you plan to stay in a hotel or motel make reservations as soon as it becomes apparent that you will evacuate
• Look for public shelter hubs along evacuation routes, they can direct you to shelters
• Use local visitor centers as a source of information
• Be sure to have an alternative site in case you cannot get to you first choice

Hurricane Evacuation Information

During recent past months, new developments have taken place that should influence your thinking when putting your emergency plans together.

• Mandatory Evacuation is now law in Texas.
• The Texas Department of Public Safety in conjunction with county and city police departments implemented a “STORM EVACUTION TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN.”
• The Red Cross implemented a “SHELTER MANAGEMENT PLAN.”

What residents can expect to hear from El Lago City Officials concerning necessary actions to be taken due to impending severe storm impact on our city:

First, “STORM IN THE GULF” notices will be posted on the City Web site and at City Hall, once a storm enters the gulf.

Next, if conditions change and storm-damaging circumstances seem likely to hit El Lago, a “VOLUNTARY EVACUATION NOTICE” will go out. This should be the time to evacuate. The goal is to give residents time to be ahead of those evacuating from areas south of El Lago.

• Notification will be posted on the City Web site, at City Hall and will be broadcast through local TV and radio. KTRH is El Lago’s chosen station.
• Residents will be notified with a phone call through the Network Early Notification System (NEWS or referred to as Reverse 911.) Residents who do not have a landline may register (at city hall) two cellular phone numbers that will be added to the emergency notification list. To Register cell numbers go to City Hall or for more information call the City Secretary at 281-326-1951 x12.

Finally, “MANDATORY EVACUATION ORDERS” will go out, simultaneously with other area governmental entities. Enforcement of the Traffic and Shelter Management Plans will then be set in motion.

Get Connected with... El Lago Connect CTY Emergency Notification System

The City of El Lago will be using the Connect-CTY notification service to send residents and businesses important emergency information such as an evacuation, utility problem or missing child. It can also be used to communicate relevant city-wide civic announcements. PARTICIPATION IS 100% FREE.

Please accept our invitation to participate in this great communication network. With the Connect-CTY service, we can contact you by your home phone. Additionally, YOU can customized the service to also be contacted via cell phone, email or PDA. This may be especially important if you are away from your home during an emergency event such as in an evacuation.

To customize your contact information with your cell phone, email and/or PDA, please go to El Lago's web site at www.ellago-tx.com. Click on the Connect-CTY icon and you will be linked to a page where your additional contact information can easily be entered. If you do not have access to a computer, call the City Secretary at 281-326-1951, ext. 12 to have your information customized for you.

The first test message will be sent out on June 27, 2007. This test will introduce the Connect-CTY service and announce the City's 4th of July Celebration. If you do not receive a call on your home phone or other device you have added through the web-site, contact the City Secretary at 281-326-1951, ext. 12.

Important Links

Harris County Office of Emergency Management
The County Judge Report
Galveston County Office of Emergency Management
Texas Division of Emergency Management
Texas Road Conditions
Houston Area Real Time Road Conditions
Houston Area Real Time Construction Schedule
Department of Homeland Security
Disaster Preparedness for People with Disabilities
National Hurricane Center
AWS Hurricane Net
National Weather Service - Houston / Galveston
National Weather Service - Corpus Christi
National Weather Service - Lake Charles
The Weather Channel
AccuWeather.com
Intellicast.com
Are you ready - or not?

Emergency Numbers