Storm Ready, Anytime
SSCI Environmental is here to help you and your business stay prepared and compliant during hurricane season. Here are some tips aimed at protecting your facility, your property and family, plus preventing environmental spills.
Weather can change in an instant – will you be ready? Here are some essential tips to help:
Facility and Business Tips
1. Review Your Emergency Response Plan:
- Ensure your facility’s emergency response plan is up-to-date and includes specific procedures for hurricanes.
- Conduct regular drills with your team to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.
2. Secure Hazardous Materials:
- Properly store and secure all hazardous materials and chemicals to prevent spills and leaks.
- Inspect storage tanks, drums, and containers for any signs of wear or damage.
- Move hazardous materials to higher ground or secure areas if there is a risk of flooding.
3. Maintain Secondary Containment Systems:
- Verify that secondary containment systems are in good condition and can handle potential spills.
- Inspect berms, dikes, and sump pumps for functionality and repair any deficiencies.
4. Backup Power and Equipment:
- Ensure that backup generators and emergency power systems are operational.
- Secure critical equipment and machinery to prevent damage during high winds and flooding.
5. Document and Report:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all hazardous materials stored on-site.
- Be prepared to report any spills or releases promptly to regulatory authorities as required.
6. Stay Informed and Communicate:
- Monitor weather forecasts and sign up for local emergency alerts.
- Establish a communication plan to keep your team informed of potential threats and evacuation orders.
7. Employee Safety and Training:
- Provide training for employees on hurricane preparedness and response.
- Ensure personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and accessible.
8. Nature-Related Tips:
- Rip current hazards can increase, even after the passing of a hurricane. Even hurricanes that are several hundreds of miles away can cause rip currents in your local area.
- https://noaanhc.wordpress.com/2025/04/30/rip-currents-the-hidden-hurricane-hazard/#:~:text=Hurricanes can generate waves that,potential for dangerous rip currents.
9. Home-Safety Related Tips:
- Create a pet emergency kit.
- Keep glow sticks in your home instead of candles.
- Buy solar-powered battery banks.
10. Government News and Updates:
- FEMA has been updating their Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) nationally:
- Be aware of any changes in your local area and how this can impact how you and your facility respond and prepare for storms.
- New Harris County flood maps are expected to be released early 2026.
- The City of Houston is in the process of providing generators to local disaster hubs. Centerpoint is leading the charge in donating generators to Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to be provided to local community hubs.
- Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) update:
- Updated (as in, reviewed annually) emergency plans for nursing homes, hospitals, dialysis centers, and child care facilities are required.
- Plans must include:
- Power loss contingencies
- Water and food supply strategies
- Staff roles and shortages
- Evacuation and sheltering procedures
- Facilities with generators must test and maintain them regularly.
Here are some resources you may find useful:
Separation Systems Consultants, Inc. is committed to helping you and your business stay safe, compliant, and resilient during the hurricane season. BE PREPARED!