Hurricane Season.
With the 2015 Hurricane season underway, and with tropical developments already effecting Houston, here is a “to do” list before, during, and after the storm, including what to do if you have a court date approaching.
Before the Storm, have:
- your car tank filled with gasoline;
- a fire extinguisher;
- first aid supplies and prescription medications;
- charcoal, lighter fluid, lighter or matches;
- candles;
- flashlight, battery-operated radio (for news updates) and a two week supply of batteries;
- bottled water; cooler, ice/gel packs;
- hammer, nails, making tape, plywood and plastic for quick home repairs;
- clean up supplies (i.e. mops, brooms, rakes, pails;
- non-perishable food items, eating utensils, plates, cups, and a manual can opener;
- protective clothing and rain gear;
- removed anything in your lawn that could be blown away;
- inspected any hazards, such as old trees that could fall;
- take video/photos for a home inventory;
- check your insurance policies
- if you feel like being proactive get a gas-powered generator.
During the Storm:
- Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors;
- If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce “power surge” when electricity is restored;
- Store valuables and personal papers in waterproof containers on the highest level of your home;
- Turn fridge to coldest setting.
After the Storm:
- Be aware of high water or fallen power lines when driving;
- if your home or building has structural damage, do not enter until it has been checked by officials;
- be aware of snakes;
- Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until certain it is not contaminated
- If damage occurred, notify your insurance company. Keep records of your clean up costs.
Court date approaching:
- Visit the District Clerk’s website (if accessible);
- Contact your bail company;
- Contact your attorney;
- Contact the court.
The counties tend to wait till the last minute to make decisions on court closings. Unless you hear otherwise, plan on being in court. Do not however, put yourself in danger to do so. If you have an issue, notify your attorney who will get in touch with the court staff for you.