Hurricane Preparedness

 The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) hurricane forecasters are predicting that this year’s hurricane season will be above normal. Their predictions include: 13 to 1 7 named storms, with 7 to 10 becoming hurricanes, of which 3 to 5 could become ‘major’ hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher.

To be prepared for a natural or man made emergency, Suffolk County and the American Red Cross suggest a three to five day supply of the following items in your homes or businesses:

• One gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation
• At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First Aid kit, essential prescription drugs and common over the counter medications Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask or cotton t-shirt to help filter the air
• Moist towelettes for sanitation
• Portable fire extinguisher
• Wrench or pliers to turn off burst water utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place, if instructed to be used by authorities
• Infant formula and diapers for infant care
• Garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation needs
• Protective clothing, rainwear and blankets
• All important personal, property and insurance documents, keys and cash together in a water-tight package or container along with written instructions for how to turn off your home’s utilities.
• Have on hand plywood, nails and other materials needed to board up windows and protect your home.
• Full fuel tanks in personal vehicles.

 In the event of an emergency of any kind that warrants evacuation, it is particularly important to evacuate promptly when advised to do so In 2005 over 1,200 lives alone were lost in Hurricane Katrina due to hesitation or a failure to leave low-lying storm inundation areas.

"It is of the utmost importance that we remain vigilant and prepared to respond quickly for the safety of all of our residents if disaster strikes,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy.

For additional information and further suggestions, visit the county’s Fire Rescue, Emergency Services web page www.suffolkcountvnv.gov/fres or the following web sites: LIPA www.lipower.org, SEMO www.nysemo.state.ny.us. or the Red Cross www.redcross.org.

FYI: In 2004 LIPA produced a DVD, in cooperation with the American Red Cross, entitled, “Be Prepared:Plan Now!” The six-minute presentation provides a suggested action plan to follow in order to begin the emergency planning process. The DVD is available at all Nassau and Suffolk County libraries.

For more information go to the Consumer Affairs web site at www.suffolkcountyny.gov click on depts., then Consumer Affairs.