Weather / Be ready

The four basics.

You don't need a different plan for every disaster. Do these four things - know your risks, get alerts, make a plan, and build a kit - and you're ready for almost anything Texas can throw at you.

1. Know your risks

Different parts of Texas face different threats. Know which ones apply where you live and travel.

2. Get alerts - and learn watch vs. warning

This is the most important habit on the page. First, the concept that decides when you act:

Then make sure warnings can actually reach you, day or night:

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Authorized agencies send these to compatible phones in the affected area through participating carriers. No app or sign-up is needed, but the phone must be on, connected to a participating network, and set to receive the alert type. Check your emergency-alert settings today.
• A NOAA Weather Radio: A battery-backed radio can sound an alert for your programmed area when you are asleep or cell service and power are spotty.
• Your local alert system: County and city alerts often require a separate sign-up. Register with your local emergency-management office so local evacuation and shelter messages can reach you.
• NWS, local news, and sirens: Follow the National Weather Service and local officials. If your town has outdoor sirens, learn what they mean - they're a signal to get inside and get information, not the only warning.

3. Make a plan

Agree on the simple things in advance, so no one's deciding in a panic:

• -Where your household will meet if you're apart.
• -How you'll reach each other if phones are spotty - a far-away relative as a shared contact helps.
• -Your evacuation routes, and where you'll shelter for each hazard.
• -If you're on the coast, know your evacuation zone (your county emergency management office assigns it).
• -Plans for pets, kids, and anyone with medical needs.

4. Build a kit

Keep enough to get through several days on your own, somewhere easy to grab:

• +Water - about one gallon per person per day, for at least three days.
• +Non-perishable food, a can opener, and any medications.
• +Flashlight, extra batteries, a NOAA weather radio, a first-aid kit, and phone chargers or a battery pack.
• +Cash, copies of important documents, and supplies for pets and infants.
• +A separate car kit (water, snacks, a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables) - vital in both winter and summer.

How much: Ready.gov says to keep water and food for several days. Build around the people, medicines, pets, and power needs in your own household, and keep a smaller kit in the car.