 Hurricane season runs from June to November, but did you know that 85% of these storms occur after August 15? As we move into the second half of the season, make sure you are ready to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Below are resources available to help you prepare for the storm and recover in the aftermath. Make an Emergency Plan Preparation is the key to safety. The Department of Homeland Security's Ready.gov is a website designed to help you and your loved ones prepare for any event or emergency. Ready.gov recommends making an emergency plan with your family, friends, or household. Be sure to consider each of the following elements while creating your emergency plan: - How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
- What is my shelter plan?
- What is my evacuation route?
- What is my family/household communications plan?
- Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?
Pack an Emergency Kit Powerful storms can cause many safety hazards. Homes may lose power. Debris and flooding may limit your ability to leave your home. Be prepared to survive with a disaster supplies kit. This kit includes basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Ready.gov recommends packing a kit with food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. Kit supplies may vary depending on your specific needs, but most kits should include: - Batteries
- Cell phone with charger and battery pack
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Documents such as insurance policies
Stay Informed It is critical to stay informed about any storms heading your way. Download the FEMA mobile app to receive real-time weather alerts, locate emergency shelters in your area, prepare for common hazards, and more. Sign up for community alerts and enable Wireless Emergency Alerts from the National Weather Service for emergency notifications in your area. After the Storm Recovering after a hurricane or other natural disaster can be daunting. However, there is support available. The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) DisasterAssistance.gov can connect you with short and long-term disaster relief. DisasterAssistance.gov is the federal government's official website to help you access and apply for relief resources from more than 17 agencies. The website can help you: - Find disaster relief to fit your specific needs.
- Apply for cash assistance following a disaster.
- Locate a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) near you.
- Find a hotel or place to live.
- Find information on food and nutrition programs.
- Have your Social Security benefits sent to your new address.
- Learn about Small Business Administration Loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses.
Storms and natural disasters can happen at any time. Protect your loved ones and give yourself peace of mind by making a plan and knowing the resources available to you. Benefits Information Updates This is the final edition of the Benefits Bulletin newsletter. If you would like to continue receiving news and information regarding government benefits and programs, please sign-up for the USA.gov newsletter in English or in Spanish to receive email updates on topics ranging from health and benefits to money and housing. You can also follow @USAGov in English on X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook, and @USAGovEspanol in Spanish on X and Facebook to get updates. | 
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