When a hurricane threatens Brazoria County, evacuating is the smartest move. The City of Richwood is in an evacuation zone. When local officials call for an evacuation, get out without delay. These storms are highly unpredictable and can strengthen rapidly in a matter of hours. Prepare and make your evacuation plans well in advance. Discuss your plans with family, friends and relatives BEFORE hurricane season begins. Review it periodically and remind others of the plan as a storm moves in.

• To protect your home, whether you are staying or going, put up shutters or plywood on all windows and openings. Winds are stronger at higher elevations so protect second and third floors.
• Move patio furniture, hanging plants and gas grills inside. If your home is vulnerable to rising water, move valuables and furniture to higher levels.
•  Notify relatives and friends about evacuation plans and confirm reservations if planning to stay at a hotel.
• Be familiar with other places to stay between your home and destination should roads become clogged. Do not ride out a hurricane in a car. Know where emergency shelters are along the route.
• Turn off electricity at the main circuit breaker or fuse box to protect appliances from power surge and reduce the risk of live dangling wires after the storm.
• If the house is supplied with natural or propane gas, turn off the gas at the meter or tank.
• Make a final walk-through inspection of the home before closing the door.
• Your emergency preparedness kit should include radio and flashlight with extra batteries, extra eye glasses, medications and special products for babies and elderly family members, bottled water, non-perishable food, dry clothes, bedding and important documents in waterproof containers.
• Make plans for pets and livestock.
• Do not try to tow a trailer or boat in high winds. It is too hazardous.

Hurricane Evacuation Routes