As residents between Blue Point and West Sayville get moving to prevent any dangers and be prepared for power outages, there are a slew of tips on what to do before, during and after a hurricane arrives.
Know Your Risk and What To Do
・ Contact your local emergency management office to learn about
evacuation routes and emergency plans.
・ Inquire about emergency plans and procedures at your child’s school and at your workplace.
・ Make a family disaster plan that includes out-of-town contacts and locations to reunite if you become separated. Be sure everyone knows home, work and cell phone numbers, and how to call 9-1-1.
・ Assemble a disaster supplies kit with food, water, medical supplies, battery-powered radio and NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, batteries, flashlights, and other items that will allow you to get by for 3 days after a hurricane hits.
・ Gather important documents such as birth and marriage certificates, social security cards, passports, wills, deeds, and financial and insurance records. Store them in a fire and flood safe location or safe deposit box.
As the Storm Approaches
・ Remember that a Hurricane Watch means the onset of hurricane conditions is possible within 36 hours; a Hurricane Warning means the onset of hurricane conditions is likely within 24 hours.
・ Have a full tank of gas in a vehicle, cash, and your disaster supplies kit ready to go.
・ Make sure every family member carries or wears identification.
・ Listen to the radio or television and NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards for current information and be prepared to act quickly.
・ Turn refrigerator and freezer to maximum cold and keep closed.
・ Secure your boat or move it to a safer mooring.
・ Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water for bathing, flushing toilets, and cleaning, but do not drink this water.
・ Secure or bring inside such outdoor items as patio furniture, kids’ slides, and power mowers.
・ Turn off propane tanks. Shut off other utilities if emergency officials advise you to do so.
Evacuate if you:
・ Are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.
・ Live in a mobile home, a high-rise building, on the coast, a floodplain, near a river, or an inland waterway, or otherwise feel you will be in danger.
If You Are Told to Evacuate:
・ Turn off all utilities if authorities advise you to do so.
・ Don’t delay in evacuating once you get word to leave.
・ Stick to designated evacuation routes. If you need help, this is the most likely place to find it.
・ Take your most reliable vehicle and avoid taking multiple vehicles that create gridlock.
If You Cannot Evacuate and Are Staying In Your Home:
・ Go to a safe indoor place for refuge, such as an interior room, closet, or hallway. Stay downstairs only if you are not in a flood prone or storm surge area.
・ Do not go outdoors during the storm, even in its early stages. Flying debris is extremely dangerous.
・ Close all doors, brace external doors, stay clear of windows and keep curtains and blinds shut.
・ If necessary take cover under a heavy table, or under something protective.
・ Don’t be tricked by a sudden lull in the storm, it may be the “eye” passing over. The storm will resume.
Immediately After the Storm:
・ Use extreme caution going out of doors. Be alert for downed power lines, broken glass, and damage to building foundations, streets and bridges, and coastal or hillside erosion.
・ Keep listening to radio, TV, or NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards.
・ Watch for closed roads.
Be Prepared to:
・ Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from power lines.
・ Once home, check gas, water, electrical lines and appliances for damage.
・ Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Never use candles or other open flames indoors.
・ When using a generator, avoid electrocution hazards by following manufacturers’ instructions and standard electrical code.
・ Do not drink tap water until you know it is safe.
