FEMA Readies for Rita, Urges Preparedness

As Hurricane Rita intensifies over the Florida Keys and tracks for the Gulf, the Department of Homeland Securitys Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is urging residents in southern Florida and those residents along the Gulf Coast to pay close attention to the storms progress and to the directives of state and local officials. Preparations should be made now.

Residents and visitors in the Florida Keys and southern Florida should be watching this storm closely and be following the instructions of local emergency management officials to ensure the safety of themselves and their families. Any storm -- even a tropical storm or category one hurricane -- poses serious danger.

"We urge the public to take this storm seriously and to listen to state and local authorities for instructions," said R. David Paulison, acting Director for FEMA. "FEMA and the entire federal government stand ready to assist state and local authorities by pre-positioning commodities and preparing to respond with critical personnel and supplies."

Residents in the Gulf State region should also keep a close eye on this storm. Tropical Storm Rita has the potential to track through the Gulf region and with a current impact zone from Mexico to Mississippi and possibly even Alabama . Residents in Southeastern Louisiana, Mississippi , and Alabama should be advised that the storm could have particular impact in areas heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina.

FEMA is preparing for Tropical Storm Rita by pre-positioning supplies and commodities in the surrounding areas of potential landfall of the storm. Commodities of ice, water and Meals-Ready-to-Eat, Disaster Medical Assistance Teams and Urban Search & Rescue Task Forces are in the final stages of positioning at federal facilities in the State of Florida.

Following is a list of actions that individuals should undertake and supplies to gather before Rita's anticipated landfall.

Before a Hurricane Strikes:

Plan a safe evacuation route and identify safe shelter space within your area. Those in storm surge zones, in flood zones, or in less than standard housing should be especially vigilant in preparing disaster plans.

Have disaster supplies on hand, including:

* Flashlight, portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries

* First-aid kit

* Emergency food and water (including a non-electric can opener)

* Essential medicines

* Cash and credit cards

* Sturdy shoes and a change of clothing

* Copies of important papers (bank statements, insurance records, deeds, etc.)

When a Hurricane Watch or Warning is Issued:

* Listen to hurricane progress reports. Follow instructions if ordered to evacuate.

* Check your emergency supplies. Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles and available cooking pots.

* Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys and garden tools; anchor objects that cannot be brought inside but that could be wind-tossed.

* Secure your home by installing hurricane shutters or precut plywood.

* Trim dead branches from trees.

* Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings if not instructed by officials to turn off utilities.

* Fuel your car. Review evacuation routes and gather your disaster supply kit.

* Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container.

* Review your family disaster plan.

If You Are Told To Evacuate:

* If officials order evacuation, leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.

* Secure your home. Unplug appliances and turn off electricity and the main water valve. If time permits, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding or move it to a higher floor. * Take your pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm, protective clothing.

For more information on emergency preparedness, please visit http://www.Ready.gov or http://www.fema.gov

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