Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 23, 2005

Collin County activates Emergency Operations Center; prepares for sheltering

(McKinney, TX) – Collin County Judge Ron Harris activated the Emergency Operations Center at noon today to assist cities and churches with possible sheltering and to conduct county sheltering. Planning is underway for the temporary housing of possible coastal evacuees. Shelter planning is also being conducted to provide protection to mobile home residents of the county, should strong winds threaten the area.

Currently, approximately 50 evacuees are being housed in several shelters with more evacuees expected. Collin County is operating its shelter at an encampment at Lake Lavon.

Churches and other organizations wishing to establish shelters are encouraged to contact their individual cities so that proper documentation is made. Shelter operators may also download American Red Cross shelter forms from the Collin County website, www.collincountytx.gov.

Complete information about preparation efforts can be found on the website, as well. Persons may also utilize the Collin County emergency hotline to obtain up-to-date information. The number is 972-548-4114.

###