AUSTIN, Texas — FEMA promotes National Preparedness Month each September because preparation saves lives and prevents loss. Taking a few minutes now can make a life-changing difference when disaster strikes. What do you need? Don’t run around stuffing things in a bag when you need to evacuate. Put together an emergency kit now with water, food and medications for at least three days as well as some cash, a first aid kit, flashlight and batteries. And don’t forget your pets’ needs. You should also bring any important documents you may need in...

AUSTIN, Texas – South Texans with damages from the June severe storms and flooding have less than one week to register for FEMA grants to help with housing repairs and rebuilding as well as other needs. The final day to register is Sept. 16. The Texas counties designated for federal individual assistance are: Cameron, Willacy and Hildago. FEMA assistance to individuals and families recovering from the floods in South Texas tops $11.5 million. This includes $9.9 million in FEMA housing assistance and $1.5 million in other needs assistance.  The U.S. Small Business Administration...

AUSTIN, Texas – South Texans with damages from the June severe storms and flooding have less than one week to register for FEMA grants to help with housing repairs and rebuilding as well as other needs. The final day to register is Sept. 16. The Texas counties designated for federal individual assistance are: Cameron, Willacy and Hildago. FEMA assistance to individuals and families recovering from the floods in South Texas tops $11.5 million. This includes $9.9 million in FEMA housing assistance and $1.5 million in other needs assistance.  The U.S. Small Business Administration...

AUSTIN, Texas – If you received flood insurance as part of your FEMA disaster assistance for Hurricane Harvey, you only have one year remaining on your National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) group insurance policy. Planning to renew your NFIP policy purchase is a great way to prepare for future disasters and protect you and your family from financial loss.  At least 30 days before your group policy expires in August 2020, you should purchase a standard NFIP policy to avoid a lapse in coverage. To remain eligible for federal disaster assistance,...

Week 1 of National Preparedness Month reminds us to prepare financially for the unexpected AUSTIN, Texas — Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, and nearly every major Texas city is vulnerable to hurricanes or sits in “Flash Flood Alley,” one of the most flash flood-prone areas in the nation.  If you were struck by a hurricane tomorrow, would you have adequate insurance? Homeowners and renters insurance do not cover flooding, and a single inch of water in an average home can cause more than $26,000...