The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is encouraging all long-term care facilities to make sure their emergency preparedness plans are updated ahead of the start of an active hurricane season forecasted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Providers across the state are urged to review these emergency preparedness and response plans before hurricane season begins June 1.
A complete emergency preparedness and response plan includes up-to-date information about evacuation destinations, transportation plans, responsibilities of staff members, continuation of care and treatments for residents, and communication procedures. HHSC issues guidance to providers about updating their plans and encourages facilities to visit the DSHS Texas Ready website for helpful hurricane preparedness resources, including sample plans, disaster supply checklists, and more information on preparing for hurricanes and other emergencies.
Emergency preparedness plans should continue to address COVID-19 contingencies, including securing supplies of personal protective equipment and maintaining infection control measures during evacuations or sheltering-in-place. The Atlantic hurricane season, which affects the Gulf Coast of Texas, runs from June 1 until November 30.
