FEMA Hosts Roundtable for Diverse Communities: Being #WinterReady Can Save Lives

By Martin H. Troupe, Sr.

As we gear up for the winter weather in 2024, it’s vital for our communities to do more than just stay informed — they need to actively prepare. This emphasis on readiness goes beyond weathering a storm; it’s about securing better outcomes post-disaster. Thanks to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), we can now be better prepared than ever before.

The Crucial Role of Information and Preparedness

In the wake of the severe winter storm that struck states like Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas three years ago — the coldest in Texas since 1989 — the importance of preparedness has never been clearer. This is especially true for minority communities, where extreme conditions can worsen existing vulnerabilities. According to FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson, “Winter weather can impact roads, schools, businesses, cause power outages and disrupt our daily routines. It can also pose serious health risks, so now is the time to be #WinterReady to help keep you and your families safe.”

Houston Ethnic Media Roundtable: Sandy Close, EMS Executive Director as moderator, and guest speaker included Traci Brasher the FEMA Region 6 Adminstrator, Brian Murray with Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Jason Tudor the AARP Natural Disasters MAnager, and Logan Perkes the FEMA Region 6 Disability Integration Specialists.

Key Areas of Focus for Minority Communities

Infrastructure Readiness: Ensuring homes are properly insulated and winterized is crucial. This involves checking heating systems, insulating pipes, and addressing vulnerabilities that could lead to heat loss.

Community Resource Sharing: Establishing networks for sharing resources like heaters, blankets, and non-perishable food can be life-saving. Community centers can serve as resource hubs.

Health and Safety Education: Spreading knowledge about preventing and addressing common winter hazards, such as frostbite, hypothermia, and carbon monoxide poisoning, is vital.

The Significance of Community Involvement

Community involvement plays a crucial role in preparedness and recovery. By fostering a sense of community, minority and underserved areas can better support each other during crises. This includes:

Volunteer Networks: Creating groups to check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors.

Local Communication Channels: Utilizing local media and social networks to disseminate information and updates.

Partnering with Local Authorities and Organizations: Collaborating with local government and organizations like FEMA to ensure resources and aid are accessible.

Traci Brasher, FEMA Deputy Regional Administrator in Region 6; Brian Murray, Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management; Logan Perkes, FEMA Region 6 Disability Integration Specialist; Dan Reilly, National Weather Service Houston/Galveston; and Jason Tudor, AARP Natural Disasters Manager

Addressing Unique Challenges

Minority and underserved communities often face unique challenges, such as limited access to resources or information. Addressing these challenges head-on involves:

Providing information in multiple languages. Ensuring equitable access to emergency resources and services. Advocating for the needs of these communities at local and national levels. As winter approaches, it’s more important than ever for minority and underserved communities to be proactive in their preparedness efforts. By focusing on infrastructure readiness, resource sharing, and community involvement, these communities can not only weather the storm but emerge stronger and more resilient. Let’s all be #WinterReady and ensure that everyone has the knowledge and resources they need to stay safe this winter.

FEMA is encouraging everyone to be #WinterReady this year, follow these general winter preparedness tips to keep your family safe.

Winterize your home

• Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows.
• Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
• Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks.

Check heating systems

• Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside.
• Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys.
• Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.
• If you do not have working smoke detectors, install one inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. Test batteries monthly and replace them twice a year.

Prepare your vehicle before travel

• Get your vehicle ready for cold weather use before winter arrives.
• Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded. The kit should include:
• Cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries
• Items to stay warm, such as extra hats, coats, mittens, blankets, or sleeping bags.
• Food and water
• Booster cables, flares, tire pump, and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction)
• Compass and maps
• Flashlight, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries
• First-aid kit

Prepare for emergencies

• Be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages.
• Stock food that needs no cooking or refrigeration and water stored in clean containers.
• Ensure that your cell phone is fully charged.
• When planning travel, be aware of current and forecast weather conditions.