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Hi! As you pick up our Hurricane Tracking Guide, you probably don’t even realize that just last season the Atlantic produced a record-tying number of storms and hurricanes. Nineteen storms ranked third in history and 12 of those became hurricanes – 5

majors! – causing $11 billion in damage across the Caribbean and taking almost 300 lives. The fact is, not much happened here in the Unites States, but each year is different. We must not get too comfortable ... those “quiet” years are deceiving!

Given our severe drought situation this spring, we honestly could use a nice, tame tropical system, so we will wish for the upside of the season and hope the worst doesn’t come our way. Yet, the chances are there, as all early forecasts are calling for an active season again ... as many as 16 storms, of which eight or nine could become full blown hurricanes.

The ocean waters are warm, and no El Niño is expected, thus no high-level winds to help knock down developing hurricanes.

Of course, how many isn’t always as important as just where they go, and that is hard to predict. We know from this drought that the Bermuda High Pressure is strong, and when it’s strong we frequently see hurricanes enter the Gulf of Mexico. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if that is the case this year.

So be ready! Have a kit, make a plan, evacuate if told to do so.

Officials I’ve spoken to are asking that if you aren’t in a surge zone, like Galveston, then shelter at home or in a safe structure, allowing those who must evacuate to leave first. We’ll be tracking those storms for you this season as always, and know that you can count on our Local2 Severe Weather Team for the most up-to-the-minute information for this Atlantic hurricane season! Thanks and stay safe!

Frank Billingsley,Chief Meteorologist, KPRC Local 2 News

WHAT HURRICANES?

AFTER THE STORMG

THURSDAY

SEPTEMBER 18, 2008

chron.com

HURRICANE IKE: SURVIVAL GUIDE

Many Houston-area residents have been without electricity for almost a week.

So before the switch is fl ipped in your area, take time to prepare for the surge of power.

It’s time to get re-energized

BILLY SMITH II : C H R O N I C L E

CENTERPOINT Energy lineman Kevin Allen works on a power line in the back yard of a Mount Belvieu residence near Baytown.

Before power is restored, master electrician Pat Busbee of Quantum Electric suggests residents unplug all appliances —

especially sensitive electronics such as computers, plasma televisions — and turn off air conditioners and electric water heaters.

Neighbors ran into the

street, whooping and holler-

ing, their power had returned.

Hoping to share their

good fortune, Byron thought,

“Please let me get back to my

house and have power,” she

said.Thankfully, she returned

to a home bright with light,

talking televisions, and the

hum of air conditioning.

“It was awesome,” said By-

ron. “We actually got to drink

NANCY Byron was walking her

Maltese and Yorkie around

her Cypress neighborhood

Sunday evening when the joy-

ful screaming began.

some cold wine. Pinot grigio is

a wonderful beverage, but not

at room temperature.”

When the lights go on,

it will be unexpected, the

lucky ones with power say.

Here are some tips to be

prepared so you don’t blow it

when the lights go on in your

neighborhood:

UNPLUG IT

After five days without pow-

er, who could be blamed for

wanting some fanfare when

the lights, television and ra-

dio blare back into existence.

Don’t do it. Unplug all ap-

pliances, especially sensitive

electronics such as comput-

ers, plasma televisions. Turn

off air conditioners. New

homes with electric water

heaters sometimes have

switches. Turn those off,

says master electrician Pat

Busbee of Quantum Electric

in the Heights.

WHY? When power first arrives in

crowded neighborhoods, a

short-term overload is possible,

said Alicia Dixon, spokeswom-

an for CenterPoint Energy. That

can damage electronics. When

it’s all up and running, feel free

to blare Sousa from the iPod

speakers and parade around the

living room.

BREAKER BOX

Just stay away from it, Busbee

said. Those boxes are often

poorly marked and messing

with the main breaker can

cause more trouble than it’s

worth when the power goes

on. In his 35 years of experi-

ence, unplugging appliances

will usually do the trick.

TAKE IT SLOWLY

Leave one light on. But once

power is up, plug in small ap-

pliances first. Then switch on

the bigger ones. Finally, turn

on the air conditioner. Bus-

bee recommends waiting an

hour to turn everything on to

make sure the power is really

up and running properly.

BABY, IT’S YOU

Energy companies are re-

sponsible for the system

until it hits your home or

business. The rest is up to

you. Check the connections

from the wires to the house.

If there is a problem, call an

electrician.

NO FAT LADIES

SINGING, YET

Just because the power is

on in your home, does not

mean all is right in the entire

world. Just yours. Remember

to stay away from low hang-

ing or downed power lines.

Assume they are dangerous.

DIGGING IT

It’s not just about the elec-

tricity. Gas lines are also a

concern. Underground lines

can be disturbed by well

meaning maintenance ef-

forts. Before digging holes

in the ground to fix a fence,

make sure the underground

utility lines are marked. You

COMING SUNDAY

Consumer guide to repairs,

insurance and coping with

the aftermath.

Living without power

STILL without power?

CenterPoint Energy says

it could be at least another

week before everyone has power

again. Here are some tips on

how to survive from CenterPoint

Energy and people who have done

it before.

• If you have a generator, use it

with care. Keep it out of enclosed

spaces. Do not connect a genera-

tor to the home’s wiring system

without proper isolating equip-

ment. Turn it off when you leave

the house.

• If heading to the store, grab

nonperishables such as canned

meats, and fruits and veg-

etables that require no cook-

ing and little or no water. Eat

perishable items first, then the

canned goods.

• Treat all lines on the ground

as if they were energized. That

means, stay away from them.

• A car charger for your cell

phone can be a lifeline when

power is out.

• If the rest of your neighbor-

hood has power and you don’t,

call CenterPoint Energy.

• Cook meat on a gas stove or

barbecue grill.

• The best light comes from

candles with hurricane globes.

• If you are going to work, plan

your wardrobe and take your

clothes out of the closet the

night before.

• Take time to catch up on

your sleep.

• Embrace good old-fashioned

entertainment like games,

story-telling and conversation.

• Be kind. Everyone will be

emotionally drained.

— Compiled by Tara Dooley

By CORILYN SHROPSHIRE and TARA DOOLEY

H O US TO N C H R O N I C L E

are required to call 811 for

the service that will mark the

lines. Remember, there may

be a wait for this service. So

take a long, hot shower and

have a cold drink to relax.

BE GRATEFUL

The return of power ener-

gized Ann Shetler’s Pear-

land neighborhood Monday

evening, relieving stress in

children and adults, she said.

Though pleased to have pow-

er, Shetler said that lights

out in her house was never

the disaster that some on the

Gulf Coast suffered in Hur-

ricane Ike.

“Being without power for

a little while is absolutely

nothing compared to totally

losing your home,” she said.

[email protected],

[email protected]

RECOVERY TIPS

INSIDE: SAFETY | INSURANCE | FEMA HELP | CLEANUP | VOLUNTEERING | COPING | RESOURCES

¬¬¬

Right Store.

Right Price.

Proud To Serve Houston

Copyright 2008. KROGER TEXAS L.P. www.kroger.com

For more information on locations open to serve you

Created on � dobe � ocument Server �.�

go to Kroger.com/IKE or call 1-800-KROGERS

7 8

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HURRICANE HELP before, during and after the storm With scores of reporters and photographers hitting the streets and manning the phones, the Chronicle offers you the latest hurricane advice, information and analysis from the experts.

Before the storm: Read science columnist and hurricane expert extraordinaire, Eric Berger — AKA SciGuy — for no-hype, science-based coverage of the developing hurricane. (Even if you’re from Katy!) You’ll fi nd his blog online everyday at chron.com. Plus full coverage in-paper and online. Find out where the closest shelters are, where landfall is predicted, tips for weathering the storm or evacuating and more.

During the storm: Still got power? Follow the storm on chron.com Power already out? Use your smartphone to access chron.com for the very latest reports on area damage, power outages, storm tracking and more.

After: Find out about school and business closings, damage reports, power outages, road closures and more, in-paper, at chron.com or on your smartphone anytime.

AFTER THE STORMTHURSDAY

SEPTEMBER 18, 2008

chron.com

Many Houston-area residents have been without electricity for almost a week.

So before the switch is fl

It’s time to get re-energizedINSIDE: SAFETY | INSURANCE | FEMA HELP | CLEANUP | VOLUNTEERING | COPING | RESOURCES

the very latest reports on area damage, power outages, storm tracking and more.

VOL. 107 • NO. 335 • 75 CENTS

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2008

WWW.CHRON.COM

To our readers:

As Hurricane Ike

takes aim at the Houston

area, we are working

to bring you the most

complete news possible,

in print and online.

Because weather condi-

tions are expected to

start deteriorating this

afternoon, you may ex-

pect delays in delivery of

your newspaper. We will

deliver all back issues as

soon as conditions allow.

A few changes to note:

■ We will not deliver

newspapers to areas

under mandatory evacu-

ation orders. Papers will

be delivered as soon as

communities are re-

opened.■ The Sunday com-

ics and inserts are be-

ing delivered to many

households with today’s

newspaper.

■ This week only, we

have canceled production

of the early Sunday edi-

tion, normally available

on Saturday afternoon.

■ Even if you can’t

get a copy on your

doorstep, you can see

the newspaper page

by page. During this

emergency, we are of-

fering free access to the

electronic edition of the

Chronicle. Go to eedi-

tion.chron.com for your

free copy. The ID and

password are: ike

■ For the latest news

and information, go to

chron.com, 24 hours a

day.■ If you need to call

about the delivery of

your paper, you can

reach us at 713-362-7211.

UTILITIES: Find

out how energy

companies are

preparing, plus get

tips for safely using

a generator and

answers about phone

service. PAGE B2

PHOTOS: An essay in images

as Houston readies for Ike’s

landfall. PAGE B5

EYE ON THE STORM:

Tracking maps, analysis,

photos and more at chron.com

SCHOOLS:

How they’re

preparing

and when

they’re

likely to

reopen.

PAGE B3

INSURANCE:

What you should

do before

and after the

storm to make

insurance claims

go smoothly.

PAGE B2

ARE YOU READY

FOR IKE?

TRACK: Forecasters expect Hurricane Ike to come ashore near

Galveston Island, marking a 100-mile shift up the coast for its

projected landfall in one day. If Ike’s forecast landfall were to

unexpectedly track that far north again today, it would follow

a path akin to Hurricane Rita.

INTENSITY: Despite crossing warm water Wednesday,

encountering little wind shear and seeing its central

pressure fall, Ike hasn’t strengthened significantly

during the past two days. That’s good, because the

super-size storm will produce a large storm surge

even without further intensification.

COMMENT: Tropical storm-force winds

should reach the coast by late morning

today and inland areas by mid-

afternoon. Expect hurricane-force

winds at the coast by late this

evening, reaching the Houston metro

area by around midnight.

■ NEED EVACUATION INFORMATION?

Call Harris County: 713-368-2741.

■ WHAT ARE THE MANDATORY EVACAUTION ZONES IN

HARRIS COUNTY? 77507, 77058, 77059, 77062, 77520,

77546, 77571, 77586 and 77598.

■ SPECIAL NEEDS IN HARRIS COUNTY? Call 311.

■ QUESTIONS ABOUT ELECTRICITY? CenterPoint Energy

(electricity): 713-207-2222; CenterPoint Energy (gas):

713-659-2111; Direct Energy (business): 877-877-3268;

(residential) 888-305-3828; TXU Energy (business):

888-399-5501; (residential) 800-242-9113.

■ ASTROS, TEXANS TO PLAY AFTER STORM: Texans will

return to Reliant at 7:30 p.m. on Monday. No makeup dates

have been set for canceled Astros games today and Saturday.

What SciGuy says

INSIDE

Business . . . . . . . D1

Comics . . . . . . . .E12

Crossword. . . . . .E11

Directory . . . . . . . A2

Editorials. . . . . . . B8

Lottery . . . . . . . . A2

Movies. . . . . . . . . .E7

Obituaries . . . . . . B7

TV . . . . . . . . . . . .E10

WE RECYCLE

NATION 9/11 remembered

See how Americans honored the terrorist attack

victims in Pennsylvania, at the Pentagon and

in New York City. PAGES A3-4

CAMPAIGN 2008 Palin: ‘I’m ready’

In her first interview since being named John

McCain’s running mate, Sarah Palin talks about

religion, Russia and being ready for the job.

PAGE A13

FLA.

GA.ALA.

MISS.

ARK.

OKLA.

KAN.

MO.

TEXAS

MEXICO

LA.

Gulf ofMexicoHouston

GalvestonCameron

Freeport

Palacios

BrownsvillePort Mansfield

Corpus Christi

Source: National Hurricane Center

Projected

movement

and strength

as of 10 p.m.

Thursday

Ike’sprojected

path

Possible

track area

7 p.m.Sat.

7 p.m.Sun.

7 p.m.today

125 mi.

JAY CARR : CHRONICLE

Trop. storm or

depression

Category 1

Category 2

Category 3

Category 4

Category 5

Hurricane

warning

10 p.m.

Thurs.

Maximum

sustained

wind: 100 mph

Movement:

West-northwest

at 12 mph

¬ ¬ ¬ *

STEVE CAMPBELL : C H R O N I C L E

CONGESTED: Traffic heads north on Interstate 45 near Spring Stuebner on Thursday afternoon after coastal areas and parts of Harris County were told to evacuate.

COAST STERNLY WARNED: GET OUT

A 40 percent spike in fill-

ups left some Houston-area

gas stations dry Thursday as

Hurricane Ike bore down on

the Texas Gulf Coast, but

gasoline should be available

today — though it may be

scarce along the most con-

gested evacuation routes.

Anne Peebles, spokes-

woman for Shell’s retail divi-

sion, said about 30 percent of

Shell stations were out of gas

Thursday afternoon, leaving

the majority with fuel on

hand.“Those are temporary,

rolling outages because the

tanker drivers are getting out

there and refilling stations,”

Peebles said.

Once Ike passes, tanker

drivers will be ready to re-

stock again — and tankers are

on standby in neighboring

states to fill the void if the

storm damages trucks or ter-

minals in this area.

“That’s one of the many

lessons we learned from

Rita,” she said, referring to

the frenzied evacuation

Created on Ado�e � ocument Server �.�

Stationsrun short

amid rush

to fill up� Spot outages

a far cry from

gas crisis during

Rita evacuation

By KRISTEN HAYS

and BRETT CLANTON

H O U S T O N C H R O N I C L E

Please see GAS, Page A6

After 25 years of slight

brushes, near misses, out-and-

out fizzles and false alarms,

Greater Houston faces the real

possibility of a direct hit from a

significant hurricane within 24

hours.But it wasn’t only the wind

and rain that concerned local

and national meteorologists late

Thursday, it was Ike’s wide

berth and its potential for a 20-

foot storm surge.

The surge brought about a

strong warning from the Na-

tional Weather Service for

people living in low-lying com-

munities.“A storm of this size is able

to bring more wind over a sur-

face of water,” said Patrick

Blood, a NWS meteorologist.

“You can imagine what a 20-

foot wall of water can do to a

community.”

Late Thursday, officials

were eyeing coastal towns from

Matagorda to Galveston Island,

all under mandatory evacua-

tion. Residents, living directly

on the coast outside the protec-

tion of a seawall, “face certain

death” if they fail to evacuate,

Blood said.

It was the strongest language

to date since Hurricane Katrina

three years ago.

Because coastal waters in

Texas and Louisiana are so shal-

low, storm surge is usually

larger here than in other re-

gions, according to storm ex-

perts. A 1900 hurricane follow-

ing a similar track to Ike inun-

dated Galveston Island, killing

more than 6,000 people —

America’s deadliest storm.

JAMES NIELSEN : C H R O N I C L E

FLOWN TO SAFETY

: Twenty-seven newborns with the most serious problems — many in incubators or

attached to equipment — were taken from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston to other Texas

cities in fixed-wing aircraft Thursday. Read more about these vulnerable evacuees. STORY ON PAGE B3

By MIKE TOLSON


Please see IKE, Page A6

DANGER: MASSIVE STORM SURGE COULD REACH 20 FEET

OFFICIALS: EVACUATE SHORE OR FACE ‘CERTAIN DEATH’

IS IKE THE ONE?: FIRST DIRECT HIT IN 25 YEARS IS POSSIBLE

— ERIC BERGER

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BILLY SMITH II : C H R O N I C L E

ENTERPOINT Energy lineman Kevin Allen works on a power line in the back yard of a Mount Belvieu residence near Baytown.


especially sensitive electronics such as computers, plasma televisions — and turn off air conditioners and electric water heaters.








Thankfully, she returned






ANCY Byron was walking her





some cold wine. Pinot grigio is

a wonderful beverage, but not

at room temperature.”

When the lights go on,

it will be unexpected, the

lucky ones with power say.

Here are some tips to be

prepared so you don’t blow it

when the lights go on in your

neighborhood:

UNPLUG IT

After five days without pow-

er, who could be blamed for

wanting some fanfare when

the lights, television and ra-

dio blare back into existence.

Don’t do it. Unplug all ap-

pliances, especially sensitive

electronics such as comput-

ers, plasma televisions. Turn

off air conditioners. New

homes with electric water

heaters sometimes have

switches. Turn those off,

says master electrician Pat

Busbee of Quantum Electric

in the Heights.

WHY? When power first arrives in

crowded neighborhoods, a

short-term overload is possible,

said Alicia Dixon, spokeswom-

an for CenterPoint Energy. That

can damage electronics. When

it’s all up and running, feel free

to blare Sousa from the iPod

speakers and parade around the

living room.

BREAKER BOX

Just stay away from it, Busbee

said. Those boxes are often

poorly marked and messing

with the main breaker can

cause more trouble than it’s

worth when the power goes

on. In his 35 years of experi-

ence, unplugging appliances

will usually do the trick.

TAKE IT SLOWLY

Leave one light on. But once

power is up, plug in small ap-

pliances first. Then switch on

the bigger ones. Finally, turn

on the air conditioner. Bus-

bee recommends waiting an

hour to turn everything on to

make sure the power is really

up and running properly.

BABY, IT’S YOU

Energy companies are re-

sponsible for the system

until it hits your home or

business. The rest is up to

you. Check the connections

from the wires to the house.

If there is a problem, call an

electrician.

NO FAT LADIES

SINGING, YET

Just because the power is

on in your home, does not

mean all is right in the entire

world. Just yours. Remember

to stay away from low hang-

ing or downed power lines.

Assume they are dangerous.

DIGGING IT

It’s not just about the elec-

tricity. Gas lines are also a

concern. Underground lines

can be disturbed by well

meaning maintenance ef-

forts. Before digging holes

in the ground to fix a fence,

make sure the underground

utility lines are marked. You

•A car charger

phone can be a lifeline when

power is out.

• If the rest of your neighbor-

hood has power and you don’t,

call CenterPoint Energy.

• Cook meat on a gas stove

barbecue grill.

•The best light

candles with hurricane globes.

• If you are going to work

your wardrobe and take your

clothes out of the closet the

night before.

•Take time to catch up

your sleep.

•Embrace good old-fashioned

entertainment like games,

story-telling and conversation.

•Be kind.

emotionally drained.


Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.

Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.































Copyright 2008. KROGER TEXAS L.P. www.kroger.com

































































































































































































CENTERPOINT Energy lineman Kevin Allen works on a power line in the back yard of a Mount Belvieu residence near Baytown.


especially sensitive electronics such as computers, plasma televisions — and turn off air conditioners and electric water heate








said.Thankfully, she returned






NANCY Byron was walking her






H O US TO N C H R O N I C L E

Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.Right Store.

Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.Right Price.

VOL. 107 • NO. 335 • 75 CENTS

¬ ¬ ¬ *

STEVE CAMPBELL : C H R O N I C L E

Traffic heads north on Interstate 45 near Spring Stuebner on Thursday afternoon after coastal areas and parts of Harris County were told to evacuate.

COAST STERNLY WARNED: GET OUT

After 25 years of slight

brushes, near misses, out-and-

out fizzles and false alarms,

Greater Houston faces the real

possibility of a direct hit from a

significant hurricane within 24

hours.But it wasn’t only the wind

and rain that concerned local

and national meteorologists late

Thursday, it was Ike’s wide

berth and its potential for a 20-

foot storm surge.

The surge brought about a

strong warning from the Na-

tional Weather Service for

people living in low-lying com-

munities.“A storm of this size is able

to bring more wind over a sur-

face of water,” said Patrick

Blood, a NWS meteorologist.

“You can imagine what a 20-

foot wall of water can do to a

community.”

Late Thursday, officials

were eyeing coastal towns from

Matagorda to Galveston Island,

all under mandatory evacua-

tion. Residents, living directly

on the coast outside the protec-

tion of a seawall, “face certain

death” if they fail to evacuate,

Blood said.

It was the strongest language

to date since Hurricane Katrina

three years ago.

Because coastal waters in

Texas and Louisiana are so shal-JAMES NIELSEN: C H R O N I C L E

Twenty-seven newborns with the most serious problems — many in incubators or

attached to equipment — were taken from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston to other Texas

By MIKE TOLSON


MASSIVE STORM SURGE COULD REACH 20 FEET

EVACUATE SHORE OR FACE ‘CERTAIN DEATH’

FIRST DIRECT HIT IN 25 YEARS IS POSSIBLE

IMPORTANT : If you have special needs

If you are physically or mentally disabled, dependent on special medical equipment, have

transportation needs or are faced with some other circumstance that will make hurricane evacuation difficult, you can pre-register with the City of Houston’s Office of Emergency

Management. Registration is free and volun-tary and will enable emergency providers

to reach those who need help. To pre-register, log on to:

http://mycity.houstontx.gov/oemtar/

and fill out the form or call 211 from anywhere in the state of Texas.

Before hurricane season begins ■ Stock up on nonperishable foods, drinking water, batteries, diapers and formula for infants and pet

food for animals. See “supplies” lists on the next page.■ Know your evacuation route, where you would go and how you would get there.■ If you’re disabled or have transportation problems, see “IMPORTANT” highlighted information below.■ Fill out your emergency numbers on map page of this guide and keep them close by.■ Create an emergency communication list in case you are separated from family and friends.

Include home, work, school and cell numbers and exchange lists with family, friends and neighbors. Keep lists at home, at work and in your cars. Also, designate a contact person who lives outside the area for everyone to reach in case of evacuation.

■ Keep cash on hand. Banks may close and ATMs may be inoperable during a storm. ■ Make sure you have enough prescription medicines to outlast a storm and its aftermath. Refill your first-aid kit. ■ Decide where to take pets, boats and travel trailers if you cannot take them with you.■ Pets are not allowed in many public shelters. Keep a list of “pet-friendly” places – hotels and motels,

friends, boarding facilities or veterinarians – and phone numbers.■ Check all battery-powered equipment. Emergency cooking facilities and lights will be

essential if utilities are interrupted.■ Charge up or check camera batteries. You may need to take photos of storm damage. ■ Take inventory of your valuables and your home. Make a videotape, take photos or keep a written log. ■ Double-check your insurance coverage for: ■ Hurricane coverage – If you want it, you need to get it now because you

cannot get it once a storm enters the Gulf. ■ Flood insurance – If your insurance company doesn’t offer it, the federal government

does, but it will not go into effect until 30 days after you’ve paid for it.

When a hurricane threatens ■ Store drinking water in any clean containers – bathtubs, bottles, pots, etc., as the water

supply may become contaminated.■ Secure outdoor objects that may be blown away or uprooted or store them inside. ■ Fuel up your car. You may need to evacuate quickly and/or sit in traffic for hours.

Service stations may also become inoperable. ■ Secure homes and buildings by boarding up each window. Tape is not adequate. ■ Moor your boat securely or move it to a designated safe place. ■ If in a mobile home, check tie-downs and evacuate. Historically, manufactured homes

suffer the greatest amount of damage during hurricanes.■ Move valuables, personal papers, family photos and important computer disks to a waterproof container on the highest level of your home or pack them to take with you.■ Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities. Unplug small appliances. ■ Turn off propane tanks.

If you have to evacuate ■ Make sure your gas tank is full. ■ Prepare your vehicle for what could be a very long ride. Stock your

vehicle with necessities such as water, food, pillows and blankets, toilet paper, current maps, baby supplies, pet supplies, prescription medicines and cash.

■ Bring proof of residency — your driver’s license, a utility bill or rent receipt — in case you will need Red Cross or FEMA assistance.

During a hurricane ■ Stay away from windows, skylights and glass doors, even if they are boarded or covered. ■ Stay on the floor that is least likely to be affected by strong winds and floodwaters. A small interior room without windows on the first floor is usually the safest place. ■ Beware of the eye of the hurricane. If the calm storm center passes directly overhead, there will be a lull in the wind that can last up to half an hour. Winds will rise again to hurricane force.

After a hurricane ■ If forced into a public shelter, stay until told by local officials it’s safe to return to your home.■ Read the Houston Chronicle, log on to chron.com, tune in to NewsRadio 740 KTRH or

KPRC Local 2 News or log on to click2houston.com for advice and instructions about emergency medical, food and housing aid, and other forms of assistance.

■ Do not drive unless it is absolutely necessary. ■ Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until you are certain it’s not contaminated. ■ If you smell gas, leave your house and call your gas supplier. ■ Look for electrical system damage. Stay away from loose or dangling wires or power lines. ■ Check for sewage and water line damage. ■ Watch out for displaced animals, especially poisonous snakes that may have come into

buildings with floodwaters. ■ Watch for loose plaster, drywall and ceilings that could fall. ■ Take photos of any damage, both of buildings and their contents, for insurance claims. Make

minor repairs to prevent further damage or looting, but do not make major repairs or dispose of damaged property until it has been inspected by an adjuster. Save all receipts.

■ If your power has gone out, open refrigerators and freezers only when necessary. A freezer without power can keep food in satisfactory condition up to 36 hours if it is kept closed. Wrapping a freezer in blankets will help insulate it.

■ Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home. ■ Avoid disaster areas; stay away from floodwaters, flooded roads and washed-out bridges. ■ Stay away from riverbanks, bayous and streams until all potential flooding has passed. Stay alert

for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding, even after the storm has passed. ■ Call your insurance company if you have vehicle or property damage to report.

Checklists – Are you ready?

Remember your radio Those who remember the big storms know what it means to have a battery-operated radio. Houstonians who hid in closets or bathrooms, listening to the unending howl of Hurricane Alicia, those trapped in their cars on flooded roadways during Tropical Storm Allison, and Bayou City residents trying to evacuate in advance of Hurricanes Rita and Ike, all recall the comfort they found through their radios. The friendly and helpful voices of NewsRadio 740 KTRH were there to get them through the storm and will be there again when the next storm hits.

Electrical power is usually the first casualty of a hurricane or tropical storm. But contact with vital information is easy to maintain through a battery-operated radio. And it’s not only information; your radio is also a link to a calm place while the storm swirls around you. NewsRadio 740 KTRH is there for you 24 hours a day.

The KTRH 24-Hour Traffic Center is also there for you, as it was throughout Tropical Storm Allison, Hurricanes Rita and Ike, every day, to help you get where you need to go with constant reports on street and route closures, high water and estimated drive times to help you.

The dedicated men and women of NewsRadio 740 KTRH work around the clock in an effort to keep you up-to-date and safe. And they are there for you when the power is out. Just remember, when you put together supplies for hurricane season, make fresh batteries for your flashlights and radios a priority. Whether at home in the dark or stuck on the road, think of NewsRadio 740 KTRH as your lifeline.

■ Battery-powered radio or television ■ An extra set of car keys■ Flashlights■ 1 gallon of water per person per day for 14 days ■ Extra batteries■ Three-day supply of canned food ■ First-aid kit and first-aid manual ■ Manual can opener

■ Matches in a waterproof container■ Map of the area and phone numbers of■ Signal flare places you could go■ Credit card and cash■ Personal hygiene items■ Personal identification■ Pet carriers and other supplies■ Sentimental photos, albums and important papers

Pet supplies ■ Medications, medical records and a first-aid kit in a waterproof container ■ Leashes, harnesses and/or carriers (Pets may bite or try to run away while stressed.) ■ Secure collars with up-to-date information. If you are evacuating to a shelter or other location, attach the phone number and location of your temporary address to the back of your pet’s ID tags with temporary tags or adhesive tape and indelible ink. ■ Current photos in case pets are lost ■ Food, water, bowls, cat litter pan and manual can opener ■ Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets ■ Pet beds and toys if easily transportable ▲

Supplies to have on hand The following items might be needed at home or for an evacuation. Keep them in an easy-to-carry backpack or duffel bag near your door in case you need to evacuate quickly.

Special needs, such as diapers or formula, prescription medicine and copies of prescriptions, hearing aid batteries, spare wheelchair battery, spare eyeglasses or other physical necessities.

You should store a week’s supply of food and water to be kept at your home in addition to your three-day supply for your evacuation kit.

We deliver, when you need it most.When an emergency threatens, PODS can help you prepare. When a sudden disaster strikes, PODS can help you react. When weather, fire, or water destroy your home or force you away, PODS is there to help.

Here’s how it works: PODS delivers a weather-resistant, secure, and ground-level container. You fill it up, at your pace and on your schedule. When you’re ready, give us a call. We’ll come get your container and take it wherever you want it to go—across town, across the country, or even to one of our many secure Storage Centers. Reference promotion code “storm” to receive 10% off* your first bill. Call 1-866-667-5573 or visit PODS.com for more information on how PODS can partner with you, your organization, or your local government.

*Available for a limited time only at participating locations. Offer void where prohibited by law. Please call or visit our website for service locations and details of offer. Must mention promotional code at time of order. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Discount does not apply to extended delivery areas. For local moves, 10% off initial local delivery and first month’s storage.

©2011 PODS Enterprises, Inc. PODS® is a registered trademark of PODS Enterprises, Inc. P01977_0411

SCAN THE CODE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PODS

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<AP> HURRICANE TRACKER 041406: ADVANCE FOR ANYTIME; map consists of a vector, Mercator projected basemap of mid-latitudes in the Western Hemisphere for general hurricane preparedness; also includes a high-res .tiff layer of landcover; with related stories; 4c x 7 inches; 195.7 mm x 178 mm;

AP Graphics 2006 hurricane tracker basemapThis map is intended to be used as a basemap for hurricane coverage.Turn layers on and off for desired information. Tiff layers are located at the bottom of the layers list. They are 300 dpi to allow for

Callout

Callout

Tropical storm

Hurricane

Washington

New

The Outer Banks, N.C.

Boston

Norfolk

35°

40°

2011 Atlantic Hurricane Names/Nombre de Huracanes del Atlántico 2011

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale/Escala de Huracanes Viento Saffir-Simpson

Category Number Sustained Winds in MPH Damage Example: Year and States Affected Número de Categoría Vientos Sostenidos en MPH Daños Ejemplo: Año y Estados Afectados

1 74-95 Minimal Lili 2002 (LA) Mínimos Gaston 2004 (SC)

2 96-110 Moderate Ike 2008 (TX) Moderados Frances 2004 (FL) 3 111-130 Extensive Katrina 2005 (LA/MS) Extensos Rita 2005 (TX/LA)

4 131-155 Extreme Carla 1961 (TX) Extremos Charley 2004 (FL)

5 >155 Catastrophic Camille 1969 (LA/MS) Catastróficos Andrew 1992 (FL)

Weather terms to knowHurricane: A cyclonic (counter-clockwise) circulation with sustained winds of 74 mph or greater.Hurricane advisory: An early warning system from the National Hurricane Center that will prepare you for a hurricane strike well in advance of hurricane watches and warnings. Hurricane warning: This means that the storm has a great likelihood of directly affecting your area in 36 hours or less. Hurricane watch: This means potential danger within 48 hours. Plan your time now.Storm surge: An abnormal rise in sea level accompanying a hurricane or other intense storm, and whose height is the difference between the observed level of the sea surface and the level that

would have occurred in the absence of the cyclone. Storm surge is usually estimated by subtract-ing the normal or astronomic high tide from the observed storm tide.Storm tide: A combination of the storm surge and the normal tide.Tropical depression: A cyclonic circulation with sustained winds 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 cyclonic circulation with sustained winds of 39 mph to 73 mph.

Emergency Numbers/Números de EmergenciaFor life-threatening emergencies – fire, ambulance, police: 911

Para emergencias de amenaza de vida – bomberos, ambulancia, policía: 911 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 1-800-621-3362

Fill in BEFORE hurricanes strike/Complétela ANTES de que lleguen los huracanes

Law enforcement/Aplicación de la ley

Doctor(s)/Médico

Veterinarian/Veterinario

Electrical provider/Compañía de electricidad

Gas company/Compañía de gas

Telephone service/Compañía telefónica

Cellular service/Compañía de celular

Cable service/Compañía de cable

Insurance/Seguro

Other/Otro

Huracán: Una circulación ciclónica (contrario al sentido de las manecillas del reloj) con vientos sostenidos de 74 mph o más.Aviso de huracán: Un sistema de alerta temprana desde el Centro Nacional de Huracanes que le ayudarán a prepararse en caso de la llegada de un huracán mucho antes de una alerta o amenaza.Amenaza de huracán: Esto significa que hay fuertes probabilidades que el huracán afecte directa-mente su área en 36 horas o menos.Alerta de huracán: Esto quiere decir que hay peligro potencial dentro de 48 horas. Planifique su tiempo ahora.Oleada de tormenta: Una subida anormal en el nivel del mar que acompaña a un huracán u, otra

tormenta intensa, cuya altura es la diferencia entre el nivel observado de la superficie del mar y el nivel que habría ocurrido en ausencia del ciclón. La oleada de la tormenta generalmente es estimada restando la pleamar normal o astronómica de la marea observada de la tormenta.Marea de tormenta: Una combinación de la oleada de tormenta y la marea normal. Depresión tropical: Una circulación ciclónica con vientos sostenidos de hasta 38 mph.Alteración tropical: Área alterada por tormentas, de origen tropical, evidente durante 4 horas antes o más.Tormenta tropical: Una circulación ciclónica con vientos sostenidos de 39 mph hasta 73 mph.

Terminología sobre el clima que debe conocer

Arlene

Bret

Cindy

Don

Emily

Franklin

Gert

Harvey

Irene

Jose

Katia

Lee

Maria

Nate

Ophelia

Philippe

Rina

Sean

Tammy

Vince

Whitney

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale*

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1-5 rating based on the hurricane’s pres-ent intensity. This is used to give an estimate of the potential property damage expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall. Wind speed is the determining factor in the scale. Note that all winds are using the U.S. 1-minute average.

Category One Hurricane: Winds 74-95 mph (64-82 kt or 119-153 km/hr). No real damage to building structures. Damage primarily to unanchored mobile homes, shrubbery and trees. Some damage to poorly constructed signs.

Category Two Hurricane: Winds 96-110 mph (83-95 kt or 154-177 km/hr). Some roofing material, door and window damage of buildings. Considerable damage to shrubbery and trees with some trees blown down. Considerable damage to mobile homes, poorly constructed signs and piers.

Category Three Hurricane: Winds 111-130 mph (96-113 kt or 178-209 km/hr). Some structural damage to small residences and utility buildings with a minor amount of curtainwall failures. Damage to shrubbery and trees, with foliage blown off trees and large trees blown down. Mobile homes and poorly constructed signs are destroyed. Low-lying escape routes are cut by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the center of the hurricane. Flooding near the coast destroys smaller structures with larger structures damaged by battering from floating debris.

Category Four Hurricane: Winds 131-155 mph (114-135 kt or 210-249 km/hr). More extensive curtainwall failures with some complete roof structure failures on small residences. Shrubs, trees, and all signs are blown down. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Extensive damage to doors and windows.

Category Five Hurricane: Winds greater than 155 mph (135 kt or 249 km/hr). Complete roof failure on many residences and industrial buildings. Some complete building failures with small utility buildings blown over or away. All shrubs, trees, and signs blown down. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Severe and extensive window and door damage.

* From the National Hurricane Center of the National Weather Service.

Escala de Huracanes Viento Saffir-Simpson* La Escala de Huracanes Viento Saffir-Simpson es una evaluación del 1 al 5 basada en la intensidad actual del huracán. Esta escala se utiliza para dar una estimación de los potenciales daños materiales y de las inundaciones esperadas a lo largo de la costa cuando toque tierra un huracán. La velocidad del vientos es el factor determinante en la escala. Observe que para todos los vientos se utiliza el promedio 1 minuto de los EEUU.

Huracán de Categoría Uno: Con vientos de 74 a 95 mph (de 64 a 82 nudos o de 119 a 153 km/hr). No ocasiona daños verdaderos a las estructuras de las edificaciones. Daña principalmente a las casas rodantes sin sujetar, los arbustos y árboles. Causa ciertos daños a las vallas pobremente construidas.

Huracán de Categoría Dos: Con vientos de 96 a 110 mph (de 83 a 95 nudos o de 154 a 177 km/hr). Algunos daños materiales en los techos, puertas y ventanas de las edificaciones. Daños considerables a los arbustos y árboles arrancando algunos de ellos. Daños de consideración a las casas rodantes, a carteles pobremente construidos y embarcaderos.

Huracán de Categoría Tres: Con vientos de 111 a 130 mph (de 96 a 113 nudos o de 178 a 209 km/hr). Ciertos daños estructurales a las viviendas pequeñas y edificios de empresas de servicios públicos con una mínima cantidad de daños a las fachadas. Daños a los arbustos y árboles con el follaje de los árboles cayéndose y derribando los árboles grandes. Resultan destruidos las casas rodantes y los carte-les pobremente construidos. Las rutas de evacuación de las zonas bajas se cierran por la crecida de las aguas de 3 a 5 horas antes de que llegue el ojo del huracán. La inundación cerca de la costa destruye las pequeñas estructuras con daños a las grandes estructuras por los golpes de los escombros.

Huracán de Categoría Cuatro: Con vientos de 131 a 155 mph (de 114 a 135 nudos o de 210 a 249 km/hr). Daños más extensos a las paredes de las viviendas pequeñas con algunos daños completos a los techos de esas viviendas. Los arbustos, árboles y carteles son arrancados de raíz. Completa destruc-ción de las casas rodantes. Daños extensos a las puertas y ventanas.

Huracán de Categoría Cinco: Con vientos superiores a las 155 mph (135 nudos o 249 km/hr). Daños totales a los techos de muchas residencias y edificios industriales. Algunas destrucciones totales de edificios derribados habrán volado. Todos los arbustos, árboles y cartelones derribados. Destrucción total de las casas rodantes. Daños severos y extensos a las ventanas y puertas.

Por Frank Billingsley,Jefe Meteorólogo, KPRC Local 2 News

Hola! Al obtener nuestra guía de seguimiento de huracanes (Hurricane Tracking Guide), usted quizás desconozca que solo en la última temporada del Atlántico se produjo un número record de tormentas

y huracanes. ¡Diecinueve tormentas ocupando el tercer lugar en la historia, de las cuales doce llegaron a ser huracanes categoría 5! – costando $11 millones de dólares en daños en todo el Caribe y tomando casi 300 vidas. El hecho es, que no pasó mucho aquí en los EEUU, pero cada año es diferente, y no por ello, debemos sentirnos muy seguros… ¡los años de “calma” nos están engañando! Dada nuestra situación de sequía severa esta primavera, nosotros honestamente deseamos tener un agradable, calmado sistema tropical por lo que se desea el lado positivo de la temporada y esperemos que lo peor no se cruce en nuestro camino. Sin embargo, la posibilidad está ahí ya que todos los pronósticos iniciales están advirtiendo de una temporada activa nuevamente… hasta 16 tormentas de las cuales ocho o nueve podrían convertirse en vientos de huracanes. Las aguas del

océano son cálidas y no se espera El Niño, por lo tanto, no hay vientos de alto nivel para ayudar a derribar los huracanes en desarrollo. Por supuesto, saber cuántos son no siempre es tan importante como hacia dónde van, y eso es muy difícil de predecir. Pero sabemos por la sequía que la alta presión de las Bermudas (Bermuda High Pressure) es fuerte y cuando es así vemos con frecuencia huracanes entrar al Golfo de Mexico, así que no me sorprendería en absoluto si ese fuera el caso este año.Así que ¡prepárate! Ten un botiquín, haz un plan, desaloje si así se lo indican. Los funcionarios con quienes he hablado están pidiendo que si usted no está en una zona de oleaje, como Galveston, refúgiese en su hogar o en una estructura segura, permitiendo a las personas que deben evacuar salir primero. ¡Nosotros estaremos siguiendo estas tormentas para usted esta temporada como siempre y sepa que puede contar con Local2 Severe Weather Team para la información más actualizada minuto a minuto para esta temporada de huracanes en el Atlántico! ¡Gracias y manténgase alerta!

¿QUÉ SON LOS HURACANES?

JIM

MY

LOYD

: FOR

THE

HRON

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Listas de Control — ¿Está usted preparado?Antes de que empiece la temporada de huracanes ■ Abastézcase de alimentos no perecederos, agua potable, pilas, pañales, fórmula para bebés, y comida para los animales. Vea la lista de provisiones en la siguiente página.■ Conozca su ruta de evacuación. Sepa a dónde iría y cómo llegaría ahí.■ Si está discapacitado o tiene problemas de transporte, vea el recuadro “IMPORTANTE” en la siguiente página. ■ Anote los números de emergencia en la página del mapa de esta guía y manténgala cerca.■ Elabore una lista de comunicación durante emergencias en caso que quede separado de su familia y amistades. Incluya el número de su casa, trabajo, escuela y celulares, intercambie la lista con familiares, amigos y vecinos. Guarde la lista en casa, en el trabajo y en sus carros.■ Adicionalmente, designe como contacto alguien que viva fuera de su área para que todos puedan comunicarse con dicha persona en caso de una evacuación.■ Tenga a mano una pequeña cantidad de dinero en efectivo. Los bancos pueden cerrar y se puede dar el caso que los ATM no funcionen.■ Asegúrese de tener suficientes medicamentos que requieran receta médica y duren el tiempo necesario después de la tormenta.■ Reabastezca su equipo de primeros auxilios.■ Decida a dónde va a llevar sus mascotas, botes y remolques de viaje en caso de no poder llevarlos.■ En muchos albergues públicos no se permiten mascotas. Tenga una lista de lugares que permitan llevar mascotas, incluyendo sus números telefónicos.■ Revise todo el equipo que funcione con baterías. En caso de interrupción de los servicios públicos será fundamental tener instalaciones para cocinar y luces de emergencia.■ Cambie o revise las baterías en las cámaras. Tal vez necesite tomar fotografías de los daños.■ Realice un inventario de su casa y sus cosas valiosas. Grabe un video y tome fotografías.■ Verifique la cobertura de seguro sobre: ■ Huracanes — Si lo quiere consígalo ahora porque no va a poder una vez que entre una tormenta al Golfo de México. ■ Seguro para Inundaciones — Si su aseguradora no lo ofrece, el gobierno Federal sí, pero no tendrá efecto hasta 30 días después de adquirirlo.

Cuando existe amenaza de huracán■ Debido a que el suministro de agua se puede contaminar, almacene agua potable en recipientes limpios, tinas de baño, botellas, cacerolas, etc.■ Asegure los objetos exteriores que puedan ser levantados o lanzados por el aire y guárdelos.■ Llene el tanque de gasolina de su carro. Puede que deba evacuar de emergencia y estar detenido varias horas. Las gasolineras también pueden quedar fuera de servicio.■ Asegure las casas y las edificaciones poniendo láminas de madera en cada ventana. No es adecuado usar cinta.■ Amarre bien su bote o muévalo a un lugar seguro designado para ello.■ Si está en una casa rodante, revise los amarres y evacue. Históricamente, las casas prefabricdas sufren los daños más severos durante los huracanes.■ Lleve sus cosas de valor, papeles personales, fotografías familiares y discos de computadora importantes en un recipiente a prueba de agua al nivel más alto en su casa o empáquelos y llévelos.■ Si la autoridad así lo indica, corte todos sus servicios. Desenchufe todos los electrodomésticos.■ Cierre todos los tanques de propano.

En caso de evacuación■ Asegúrese que su tanque de gasolina esté lleno.■ Abastezca su carro con lo necesario como agua, comida, almohadas y cobijas, papel higiénico, mapas actualizados, provisiones para bebé, provisiones para mascotas, medicamentos recetados y dinero en efectivo.■ En caso de necesitar ayuda de la Cruz Roja o de FEMA, lleve consigo pruebas de residencia como su licencia de conducir, una factura de electricidad o recibo de renta.

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Durante un huracán ■ Aléjese de las ventanas, tragaluces y puertas de vidrio, no importa si están cubiertas o tienen láminas de madera.■ Quédese en un pequeño cuarto interior sin ventanas en el primer piso; generalmente es el lugar más seguro.■ Tenga cuidado con el ojo del huracán. Si el centro de la tormenta pasa directamente sobre usted, habrá una pausa en el viento que puede durar hasta media hora y los vientos volverán a aumentar a fuerzas huracanadas.

Después de un huracán■ Si un huracán lo obliga a ir a un albergue público, quédese ahí hasta que los oficiales locales le digan que es seguro regresar a su hogar.■ Lea el Chronicle, vaya en línea a chron.com, sintonice NewsRadio 740 KTRH o KPRC Local 2 News’s Severe Weather Center para recibir consejos e instrucciones sobre apoyo médico de emergencia, alimentos, ayuda para vivienda y otra clase de apoyos.■ No conduzca a menos que sea absolutamente necesario.■ No beba ni prepare comida con agua del grifo hasta asegurarse que no está contaminada.■ Si huele gas, salga de su casa y llame a su proveedor.■ Busque daños en el sistema eléctrico. Aléjese de cualquier alambre suelto, que cuelgue o de los cables de energía.■ Revise posibles daños en el drenaje y en la línea de suministro de agua.■ Tenga cuidado con los animales desplazados, especialmente de las víboras venenosas que pueden entrar en las edificaciones por causa de las inundaciones.■ Tenga cuidado con el estuco suelto, las láminas de yeso y los ventiladores que pueden caer.■ Para los reclamos a las aseguradoras, tome fotografías de cualquier daño, tanto en las edificaciones como su contenido. Haga reparaciones menores para evitar más daños o saqueos, pero no haga reparaciones mayores ni se deshaga de propiedad dañada hasta que lo haya revisado un inspector. Guarde todos los recibos.■ Si no tiene electricidad, solamente abra los refrigeradores o congeladores cuando sea necesario. ■ Un congelador sin electricidad puede mantener alimentos en condiciones satisfactorias hasta 36 horas si se mantiene cerrado. Envolver el congelador en cobijas ayudará a aislarlo.■ Abra ventanas y puertas para ventilar y secar su casa.■ Evite las áreas de desastre, manténgase alejado de las inundaciones, caminos y puentes inundados.■ Manténgase alejado de las riberas de los ríos, pantanos y arroyos hasta que haya pasado cualquier peligro de inundación. Esté alerta en caso de lluvias extensas y subsecuentes inundaciones, incluso después de haber pasado la tormenta.■ Llame a su compañía aseguradora si tiene que reportar daños a su vehículo o propiedad.

IMPORTANTE:Si tiene necesidades especiales

Si usted tiene discapacidades físicas o mentales, o depende de algún equipo especial, tiene problemas de transporte o se enfrenta a alguna otra circunstancia que dificultará su evacuación en caso de un huracán, puede registrarse con anticipación con el City of Houston’s Office of Emergency Management. La inscripción

es gratuita, voluntaria y ayudará al personal de emergencia para llegar a aquellos que lo necesitan. Para registrarse con

anticipación vaya en línea a:

http://mycity.houstontx.gov/oemtar/

llene el formulario o llame al 211 desde cualquier lugar en el estado de Texas.

Provisiones que debe tener a manoPuede necesitar los siguientes artículos en su casa o durante una evacuación. Guárdelos en una mochila fácil de cargar o en una bolsa de viaje cerca de su puerta en caso que necesite evacuar rápidamente.

■ Un radio transistor■ Linternas y pilas extras■ Equipo y manual de primeros auxilios■ Fósforos en un recipiente a prueba de agua■ Luces de bengala■ Tarjeta de crédito y dinero en efectivo■ Identificación personal■ Un juego extra de llaves del carro■ Se recomienda 1 galón de agua por persona, por día, durante 14 días■ Provisiones de comida enlatada para tres días■ Abrelatas manual■ Mapa del área y números telefónicos de lugares a donde puede ir■ Artículos de higiene personal■ Provisiones para mascotas■ Necesidades especiales como pañales o fórmula para bebé, medicamentos de

receta médica y copias de las recetas, pilas para aparatos auditivos, batería extra para silla de ruedas, segundo par de gafas u otras necesidades físicas.

■ Fotografías de valor sentimental, álbumes y otros papeles importantes

También deberá almacenar en su casa alimentos y agua para una semana, sumado a los suministros para tres días en su equipo para evacuaciones.

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ERIC BERGER, AKA SciGuy is the voice of reason for hurricane reporting. It’s hurricane reporting. Minus the hot air. Eric Berger, the Houston Chronicle’s science reporter, covers everything from nanometers to parsecshas. But he has quickly gained a reputation — and large following — for his no hype, no drama, science-based hurricane reporting. In fact, he’s gained popularity far beyond the Houston area, attracting followers from all over the Gulf Coast.

Whenever there’s a storm in the gulf — Eric Berger brings you the latest information, as well as live web chats to discuss the storm and up-to-the-minute information from top experts.

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Provisiones para las mascotas ■ Medicamentos, expedientes médicos y un equipo de primeros auxilios en un recipiente a prueba

de agua.■ Correas fuertes, arneses y/o jaulas para transportarlas (hasta las mascotas dóciles pueden

intentar morder o correr si están bajo estrés)■ Collares seguros con información actualizada. Si va a un albergue u otro lugar, ponga el número

telefónico y la dirección temporal en el reverso de las placas de identificación de su mascota con placas temporales o con cinta adhesiva y tinta indeleble.

■ Fotografías actualizadas en caso de que se pierdan.■ Alimentos, agua, recipientes, caja para la arena de gato y un abrelatas manual.■ Información sobre horario de alimentación, condiciones médicas, problemas de comportamiento

y el nombre y número de su veterinario en caso de tener que dejar sus mascotas con otras personas o en lugares de hospedaje para animales

■ Camas para las mascotas y sus juguetes si se pueden transportar con facilidad ▲

©2011 H-E-B, 11-2285

Hurricane and Flood Guide

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