Washington Parish President Richard Thomas reminds the public to have a disaster plan in place in case of a hurricane hitting the area.

Hurricane season began on June 1 and runs until Nov. 30.

Thomas suggested the public review their disaster plan. He said if a family does not have a disaster plan, he suggested 10 steps to ensure safety:

• Decide where you will go.

• Know the route you will take.

• Have a survival kit ready.

• Plan for special needs family members, such as the elderly, children, disabled and special needs children.

• Plan for pets or other animals.

• Locate and plan to take important documents and keepsakes with you.

• Have adequate insurance on your property and record in photos or video your possessions.

• Properly protect your home and property before you leave.

• Have a communication plan so your extended family can contacty you.

• Have a financial plan for times of disaste. Keep cashp on hand and plan for vacation expenses.

More information on this 10-step process can be found in the Washington Parish version of the Louisiana Storm Guide available at the Washington Parish Government Office at the Washington Parish Library. Also look for storm tracking maps in certain editions of The Daily News beginning June 26.

“I ask that you personally prepare a family emergencvy plan for natural and man-made emergencies beforehand and keep it available for future use,” Thomas said. “You never know when an emergency, such as a hurricane, will happen, but you can start preparing now. Planning ahead can save your life, minimize danger and maximize your overall safety. As your parish president, I ask that you keep informed.”