Our community’s experience with Hurricane Ike will be forever etched in history and in the memories of those who experienced it.  

Amid the physical destruction and economic losses were numerous health threats, loss of public health and medical infrastructure, illnesses, injuries and 18 reported deaths.

With hurricane season once again upon us, it is important that residents prepare for evacuation, flooding and many other hurricane-related consequences that may impact our communities.

Being prepared saves lives. Here’s what you can do.  

The first thing to do is have emergency supplies on hand and be ready to go.  

If you wait until just before a storm, you may find many supplies out of stock in local markets.  

For a complete list of suggested items, see the Galveston County Health District Web site at www.gchd.org/bt/btnatural.htm. 

For evacuations, residents with special medical needs should register for assistance by calling 211. City of Galveston residents should call 409-797-3710 to register for assistance.  

People with special medical needs should also heed warnings of local health authorities. For example, in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, Galveston Island lost medical and public health infrastructure.  

For a period of time, it was unsafe for people with special medical needs to return to the island due to the lack of an emergency room, very limited primary care, limited availability of medications and other medical supplies, as well as the lack of a local shelter that could care for people with special needs.  

Local officials will advise such residents when it is appropriate to return to an area impacted by a hurricane.  

Keep in mind during the hurricane season the many health threats faced after Hurricane Ike and what you can do to protect the health and safety of you, your loved ones and your neighbors.  

At all times, being prepared, being aware of health and safety precautions and practicing excellent hygiene will help protect your health.  

While we would certainly hope to not have another storm this season, a hurricane is a real threat annually for Gulf coast communities. Planning now, instead of later, will safeguard your most precious asset — your personal health. 

Dr. Harlan “Mark” Guidry is chief executive officer and health authority for the Galveston County Health District.