Preparing for Guests During Hurricane Alex

Tropical storm Alex is certain to become a hurricane over the next few hours as it barrels toward the Texas and Mexico coast. Hurricane watches have been issued for Gulf residents along the Texas border, so what are we to do when we live in Dallas?

Dallas rarely finds itself in the path of the many hurricanes that make landfall in Texas during hurricane season. However, as neighbors to the Gulf region, my home becomes an open door to safety, helping families relocate during this stressful time.

Never consider a visit from family or friends displaced by a hurricane warning as a pleasant reunion. Your friends and family are experiencing a fair amount of stress and making them feel comfortable is the most important thing you can do ahead of their arrival.

Here are some ways you can reduce their stress levels ahead of their arrival:

1) Call them now, get a head count and pull out all of the bedding you may need. Make the beds now while you have time. When they arrive, you won't have time to do this.

2) Make sure to have extra toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo available because they're not thinking about small ticket items while they're packing. Chances are they'll forget many items like this.

3) Grocery shopping. If there are kids involved, stock up on inexpensive foods most children love, like macaroni and cheese or ingredients to make quick sandwiches. Your house is about to explode with insanity, and having as much food on-hand as possible will keep you from having to shop during their visit.

4) Give adults a quiet area to contact loved ones. Make sure they have a space where it's quiet and away from their children, who will not be acting normally from being displaced. They need to stay in contact with their insurance agents, or loved ones who have also been displaced.

5) Pre-plan some inexpensive entertainment, whether it's movie rentals or a night-out where the adults can set aside their worries.

Here in Dallas, the hurricanes never displace us, but they do displace families who end up in our fair city. By making your home ready for visitors, you'll help them reduce the stress that comes along with being ejected from unsafe coastal areas.