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The 2017 Hurricane Season is officially underway and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) continues urging South Mississippi residents to get prepared now.
“Hurricane Season is well underway and the time to prepare is now; don’t wait until the storm is being tracked to start putting a plan together,” said Transportation Commissioner Tom King. “When preparing for a hurricane, the first step is to have a plan of action. It’s important to have both survival kit and home readiness checklists available for when the time comes.”
To help Mississippians prepare for Hurricane Season, MDOT offers several free resources, including the 2017 Hurricane Evacuation Guide, an essential resource that’s just a click away. Order a free copy today at GoMDOT.com/maps.
The guide features information to assist in developing a preparedness plan such as evacuation routes, contraflow information, radio coverage areas through Mississippi Public Broadcasting and important contact information from the Mississippi Highway Patrol, American Red Cross, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and bordering state DOTs and highway patrols. Individuals and families will find vital resources on shelters, pet care, 211 MS, lodging and travel resources.
MDOT also offers disaster kit checklists and instructional videos on how to get prepared at www.GoMDOT.com/hurricanes. Be sure to have a survival kit ready and stored in a safe place until needed. MDOT recommends the following essential items to include in a survival kit:
WATER:
Drinking water (one gallon per person per day for 14 days)
Water for cooking and hygiene (one gallon per day per person)
Water for pets
FOOD:
Non-perishable packed or canned food to last 14 days
Ready-to-eat canned meats, soup, fruits and vegetables
Canned/boxed milk or juice
Bread, crackers, cookies and cereal
Granola bars and trail mix
Special food for babies and the elderly
Non-perishable food for pets
HOUSEHOLD ITEMS:
Cooler for ice and food storage
Flashlight with extra batteries or hand-crank
Grill with extra propane, charcoal or Sterno
Car charger for cell phones
Waterproof matches
Water purification tablets
Napkins, paper towels and toilet paper
Paper plates, cups and plastic eating utensils
Outdoor extension cords
Blankets and towels
Basic tool kit, work gloves and duct tape
Waterproof tarp, plastic sheeting and rope
Pet carriers and pet documentation\licenses
Extra cash
Maps
Emergency generator
HEALTH ESSENTIALS:
Two week supply of prescription drugs and vitamins
Over the counter pain reliever
Toiletries and hygiene items
First Aid Kit
Sunscreen
Mosquito repellant
Antibacterial hand soap
Plastic garbage bags
Medications for pets
If a hurricane is on the way, always remember to shut off utilities and propane tanks, turn all refrigerators and freezers to the coldest setting and leave the doors closed, fill a tub with water and unplug all appliances and electronics.
“In the event of a hurricane, MDOT is ready to provide support and are often the first responders clearing the path for emergency and medical personnel,” said Commissioner King. “We’re doing our part to prepare for Hurricane Season. Are you?”
During the storm, the public can stay updated on live travel and weather information 24/7 with MDOT’s free travel resources. Visit MDOTtraffic.com, download the MDOT Traffic Mobile App or call 511.
Follow @MississippiDOT on social media along with the hashtag #HurricaneStrong this Hurricane Season.
