Texas hurricane awareness program.

Few events have more impact on the nation's shoreline than major hurricanes which kill hundreds, inflict billions of dollars in damages, and cause major changes in the natural environment. Texas has suffered greatly from hurricanes, i.e. more than 6000 people died in Galveston during the 1900 storm and in the 1960's, three major hurricanes hit the Texas coast. Rapid coastal growth is compounding the danger. Many problems exist, including poor quality construction, low-lying escape roads, erosion, land subsidence, and man's reluctance to accept the fact that he has not tamed nature. Because of its susceptibility to hurricanes and the compounding problems, Texas has been agressive in attempting to alert the public with preparedness information. Efforts to educate the Texas coastal public on hurricanes have centered on the Hurricane Awareness Program. This government-industry public education program attempts to reach every household with information on actions which can be taken to reduce damages from hurricanes. The program consists of TV and radio spots, mailouts and handouts, including retail displays. The effort is coordinated with NOAA-NWS and would certainly have direct applicability for the states on the Gulf and Atlantic coasts and could serve as a guide for any hazard awareness program.