How to Prepare for Hurricane Irene

The time to prepare for a hurricane is before it strikes.

The National Weather Service advises every family to have a disaster plan. Here are some things you should discuss now:

• Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
• Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard. In certain circumstances the safest areas may not be your home but within your community.
• Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet. These should be measured in tens of miles rather than hundreds of miles.
• Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact.
• Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
• Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
• Check your insurance coverage - flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance.
• Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a disaster supply kit.
• Use a NOAA weather radio. Remember to replace its battery every 6 months, as you do with your smoke detectors.

NWS recommends that every household have a disaster supply kit, containing items that are usually scattered around the home and should be brought together in one place:

• Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3-7 days
• Food - at least enough for 3-7 days
  — non-perishable packaged or canned food and juices
  — foods for infants or the elderly
  — snack foods
  — non-electric can opener
  — cooking tools and fuel
  — disposable plates and utensils
• Blankets and pillows
• Clothing:  Seasonal, rain gear, sturdy shoes
• First aid kit, medicines and prescription drugs
• Special items for babies and the elderly
• Toiletries, hygiene items, wet wipes
• Flashlight and batteries
• Radio: Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
• Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
• Cash (with some small bills) and credit cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
• Keys
• Toys, books and games
• Important documents in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag. Include insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
• Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
• Vehicle fuel tanks filled
• Pet care items
  — proper identification / immunization records / medications
  — ample supply of food and water
  — a carrier or cage
  — muzzle and leash

The Federal Emergency Management Agency also has tips for protecting property:

• Cover all of your home's windows with pre-cut plywood or hurricane shutters to protect your windows from high winds.
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
• Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
• Secure your home by closing shutters, and securing outdoor objects or bringing them inside.
• Turn off utilities as instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
• Install a generator for emergencies
• Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage, it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
• Find out how to keep food safe during and after and emergency by visiting www.FoodSafety.gov.