Texas offers program to help people in times of emergency [Video]

SMITH COUNTY, Texas — Counties across East Texas are preparing for the upcoming winter weather.

The Smith County Emergency Management Center is ready to be open. The center will bring together representatives from various agencies, including Emergency Services Districts No. 2 and 3, medical facilities, the Smith County community emergency response team and other Smith County departments to aid the coordination of battling the winter weather. 

Now, there are a number of things people can do to prepare yourself and loved ones.

Brandon Moore, Smith County emergency management coordinator, said the Texas Division of Emergency Management has a program that helps those who are in need during emergency situations. 

The program, State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry, also known as STEAR, is free to register and it applies to the following: 

“And if you’re …