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May 29 – June 2 is Mississippi Hurricane Preparedness Week
BILOXI, MISS. — The 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins June 1, and Mississippi is recognizing May 29 through June 2 as Hurricane Preparedness Week. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is reminding residents, businesses and community organizations across South Mississippi to have a preparedness plan in place at all times.
“The time to prepare is now, not waiting until the storm is being tracked,” said Transportation Commissioner Tom King. “The first step in preparing for a hurricane is to have a plan of action. MDOT offers a variety of free resources to get started. We’re urging the public to take advantage of these resources and get a jump start on the preparation process.”
The 2017 Hurricane Evacuation Guide is an essential resource 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 urges the public to take action and gather the materials needed to secure homes for the Hurricane Season,” said MDOT Executive Director Melinda McGrath. “It’s important to have both survival kit and home readiness checklists available for when the time comes.”
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. MDOT offers these additional tips for securing a home.
Be prepared to cover all windows by installing permanent storm shutters or plan to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.
Reduce roof damage by installing straps or additional clips to fasten your roof to the frame structure.
Trim trees and shrubs to be wind resistant.
Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
Reinforce your garage doors with a counterbalancing kit.
Bring in all outdoor furniture, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
For those with boats, determine how and where to secure it.
Along with how to secure homes for a hurricane, MDOT offers disaster kit checklists and instructional videos on how to get prepared at GoMDOT.com/hurricanes.
“A majority of hurricanes that have hit land struck the Gulf Coast,” said Commissioner King. “MDOT is ready to provide support in the event of a hurricane and are often the very first responders cutting the path for emergency and medical personnel to respond.”
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.
