The Necessity of Local Preparedness: Building Resilient Texas Communities

Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires, have become increasingly common in recent years. Texas, in particular, is no stranger to these types of disasters, with Hurricane Harvey causing an estimated $125 billion in damage and the winter storm in February 2021 leaving millions of Texans without power and water for days. In the face of these challenges, it is more important than ever for Texans to prioritize local preparedness and build resilient communities.

One way to build resilience is through community-led initiatives that prioritize emergency preparedness and response. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, for example, offers a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program that trains volunteers to assist emergency responders during disasters. By participating in CERT, volunteers not only gain valuable skills, but they also help build a more resilient community (1).

Another important aspect of local preparedness is developing and maintaining a robust emergency supply kit. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that emergency kits include food, water, and supplies for at least three days, as well as any necessary medications, important documents, and a first aid kit (2). Additionally, FEMA suggests keeping emergency kits up-to-date and tailoring them to the specific needs of your family and community.

Building strong social networks and partnerships is also crucial for community resilience. By working together, neighbors can support one another during emergencies and pool their resources for recovery efforts. For example, the Cajun Navy, a volunteer organization made up of private boat owners, played a critical role in rescuing Texans during Hurricane Harvey (3).

Local government officials also have a key role to play in promoting local preparedness. In 2019, the Texas legislature passed HB 5, which requires each county to establish a committee to develop and maintain an emergency management plan (4). This type of legislation helps ensure that local communities are prepared for emergencies and have the necessary resources to respond.

In summary, building resilient communities requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes community-led initiatives, emergency preparedness, social networks and partnerships, and government support. By investing in these efforts, Texans can better prepare for and respond to the challenges posed by natural disasters, and build stronger, more resilient communities.

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