The Houston / Galveston StormReady Advisory Board has recognized the City of Galveston as a StormReady Community. This recognition is valid for three years and is a testament to the City's vision, leadership, hard work and commitment to its citizens and schools.

StormReady, a program started in 1999 in Tulsa, Oklahoma which helps arm America's communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property, before and during a disaster event. As a StormReady community, Galveston is better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe weather through advanced planning, education and awareness. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help communities save lives.

"Any additional measures to educate our residents and plan in advance of a storm can translate into lives saved," remarked Emergency Management Coordinator Charlie Kelly. "Being a StormReady community is another layer of preparation and awareness that we can provide to the City of Galveston."

StormReady community signs will be placed at the entry points to Galveston Island as a visual reminder of this recognition. Only 76 communities have obtained StormReady status in the state of Texas.

There are added insurance benefits to StormReady status as well. As a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program, Galveston may now be eligible for 25 additional Insurance Service Organization (ISO) community rating system points.

"We don't hope for another disaster related event," Kelly concluded. "But we want our residents to know that the City is proactive and ready in any case."

For additional information on the StormReady program, please visit www.stormready.noaa.gov or contact Charlie Kelly, Emergency Management Coordinator at (409) 765-3710.