MEMA urges preparations as hurricane season begins

(The following is a press release from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.)

PEARL – Today, June 1, marks the official start to the 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season. We have already seen the first named storm of the season in Alberto which made landfall along the Florida panhandle and moved north through the middle of Alabama.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency reminds residents that being prepared before a storm hits will make things less stressful during and after.

“Mississippi government is prepared to respond, but everything starts with individuals and families being ready,” said MEMA Interim Director J.W. Ledbetter. “Know where you will go and what supplies you will need. Also prepare for days, perhaps weeks without electricity after the storm passes.”

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30. Remember no matter what the season holds, it only takes one.

One of the first steps you should take is to create or restock an emergency supply kit:

• Flashlight and battery-powered radio with extra batteries.

• Non-perishable food for at least three days.

• One gallon of water, per person, per day for at least three days.

• Toiletry items.

• Pet food and pet supplies.

• Medicine and prescription medication.

• Copies of important family papers and documents.

• Cash and travelers checks, enough to fill up your vehicle with fuel.