In a recent interview, Chief Beau Moreno of the Houston Fire Department (HFD) provided valuable insights into the efforts of emergency responders in Houston, particularly in the context of flood and hurricane preparedness. One of the key topics discussed was the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) program, which plays a crucial role in aiding vulnerable populations during emergencies.
Chief Moreno highlighted the importance of the STEAR program, explaining how it enables emergency responders to identify and assist individuals with specific needs. “The STEAR registry helps us find out where the areas that we really need to go check on and focus on,” said Chief Moreno. “It lets us know that there are people with medical needs that need to be attended to.”
What is the STEAR Program?
The State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) is a free, voluntary registry that provides local emergency planners and responders with valuable information about the needs of their community members during emergency events. The registry is designed to help those who might require additional assistance in times of disaster, such as individuals with disabilities, medical needs, or mobility challenges.
Who Should Register for STEAR?
The STEAR program is intended for:
- People with disabilities
- Individuals who are medically fragile
- Those with limited mobility
- People with communication barriers
- Individuals requiring additional medical or personal care assistance
- Those needing transportation assistance during an evacuation
Why Register for STEAR?
Registering for the STEAR program can be a crucial step in ensuring your safety and well-being during an emergency. By providing detailed information about your needs, you enable local emergency responders to plan and prioritize their assistance efforts more effectively. This proactive step can make a significant difference in how quickly and efficiently you receive help in a disaster.
How to Register for STEAR
You can register for the STEAR program through the following methods:
- Register Online at State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry
- Call 2-1-1 or 877-541-7905 (Texas Information Referral Network)
It’s important to note: Registering for the STEAR program is entirely voluntary and does not guarantee you will receive specific services during an emergency. The program helps emergency responders and planners understand who may need extra help, but available services can vary by community. By registering, you are consenting to share your information with first responders and other state agencies during a disaster. For more detailed information, including the vital information collected during registration, please visit the STEAR website.
Spreading the Word: How Property Owners and Businesses Can Help
Property owners and Businesses play a vital role in ensuring the community is aware of the STEAR program. Here are some ways you can help spread the word:
- Property owners can place STEAR flyers in visible locations like bulletin boards, mailrooms, and community centers. Ensure the flyers are available in multiple languages. Business owners can also display these flyers in storefronts or at checkout areas.
- Include details about the STEAR program in your email newsletters to tenants or customers, providing direct links to registration forms.
- Mention the STEAR program during tenant meetings, employee gatherings, or community events to raise awareness.
- Invite local emergency management officials to speak to tenants and staff about the benefits and importance of the STEAR program.
- Share information about the STEAR program on your social media platforms, including links to the official STEAR website for easy access to registration.
- Property owners can add STEAR program details to welcome packets for new tenants, ensuring they are informed from the start.
- Engage eligible tenants through direct outreach methods such as phone calls, door-to-door visits, or personalized letters to encourage STEAR registration.
By actively promoting the STEAR program, you can help ensure that vulnerable community members receive the assistance they need during emergencies.
For more information on the STEAR program, please contact your local emergency management office or visit the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry website.
