June 13, 2007—With the beginning of the hurricane season on June 1, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urges people and businesses to start planning before hurricane force winds or storm flooding may occur. Early preparations can help minimize injury and property damage, says EPA.
EPA’s Hurricanes Web site includes information for business operators on preventing and reporting chemical releases due to severe weather, which can be required by law. Local governments and community agencies can find suggestions for preparing and protecting water and wastewater facilities.
There is also detailed information for debris planning, since storm debris can occur in enormous amounts that overwhelm local landfills, and can also present serious dangers to human health and the environment, notes EPA.
This information is currently available in English and Spanish, and will soon be available in Chinese and Vietnamese, says EPA.
