As the 2024 hurricane season nears, Attorney General Liz Murrill emphasizes the importance of preparation and vigilance. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts an above-normal season with expectations of seventeen to twenty-five named storms, eight to thirteen of which may develop into hurricanes.
Attorney General Murrill advises residents in Louisiana to have a plan ready at the start of the season. "The first step in staying safe is preparing before a disaster strikes. That means ensuring your homeowner insurance is up to date, developing an evacuation and communication plan, stocking up on supplies," she stated.
Murrill provides several recommendations for safety before, during, and after a natural disaster:
- Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes.
- Review your renters or homeowners insurance policy.
- Safeguard personal information in a secure, waterproof location.
- Declutter drains and gutters; ensure vehicles are operational.
- Document home items with pictures or videos.
- Assemble disaster supplies for at least three days.
- Create a communication plan with loved ones in case of power loss.
Including pets in emergency plans is also crucial:
- Update pet ID tags; consider permanent identification like microchips.
- Identify pet-friendly evacuation locations.
- Prepare necessary pet food, medicine, documents, crates, and collars or harnesses.
For further details, visit www.AGLizMurrill.com/Resources.