City of College Station Blog

By Tradd Mills, Emergency Management Coordinator

As we approach the onset of the 2024 hurricane season on June 1, the season forecast is anticipated to be above normal. Despite the risks, adequate preparation significantly increases your chances of staying safe and protecting your property.

As National Hurricane Preparedness Week ends, here are four steps to help ensure you’re hurricane-ready:  

1. Don’t wait to get flood insurance. 

There’s a 30-day waiting period before a policy takes effect. Waiting to purchase flood insurance until just before a disaster is not a wise option.

2. Know your risk. 

Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center or call the Planning and Development Services Department at 979-764-3570 and ask for a review engineer to learn more about your property.

3. Build an emergency supply kit.

It’s a good idea to have a potable water supply that will last at least three days. You’ll need one gallon of water per day for each person or pet in your household. You’ll also need non-perishable, ready-to-eat food such as canned goods, nuts, nut butters, dry cereals, granola, and protein bars.

Make sure your flashlights, lanterns, and weather radio have good batteries, too.

4. Know your evacuation routes. 

Plan how you will leave and identify several locations you could go if you’re advised to evacuate. Choose destinations in different directions, so you have options. 

With appropriate planning, you’ll be ready to take action to protect your family and property.

About the Blogger

Tradd Mills is in his fourth year as the city’s emergency management coordinator after two years as an assistant fire chief with the College Station Fire Department. Tradd previously served two years as a CSFD division chief after more than 11 years with the Burton (S.C.) Fire District. He earned a degree in Public Safety Administration from Kaiser University in 2016.

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