With a severe storm forecasted to be heading our way, Hurricane Sandy could affect our area with heavy rains of up to 12 inches. The weather model predicts the center of the storm being close to our area beginning Sunday and going into Monday. The interaction of these to systems will cause some showers to develop and the winds to start increasing on Sunday. Monday and Tuesday (possibly into Wednesday) is when we’re expecting the worst of the wind and rain from this Sandy/hybrid storm. That would mean damaging winds and power outages as well as major local river and coastal flooding. In preparation for the hurricane, here are some emergency kit supplies to have on hand and things to check for before Sunday in case of a major hit.
Not knowing when or where a hurricane like Sandy will make land is stressful ― but there are ways to be prepared for the worst of the storm. Some ways residents can get ready for bad weather include:
- Develop a family evacuation plan.
- Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
- Fill your car’s gas tank, as gas stations are vulnerable to power outages.
- Stock up on enough water and non-perishable food items that could last each person in the home up to five days. A good rule of thumb is one gallon of water daily per person.
- Put together an emergency kit, including flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, and rain gear.
- Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
- Have enough cash on hand in case ATMs and banks are not open.
- Keep important documents such as insurance cards, medical records, bank account numbers, birth certificates or social security cards in a waterproof or watertight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Keep all of your prescription medicines in a plastic bag, and keep it with you.
- Don’t forget your pets. Bring your pets indoors.
- Have at least 3 days’ worth of pet food, bottled water and supplies for your pet.
- It’s also a good idea to keep emergency supplies in your car.
Officials from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation are gearing up for Hurricane Sandy as well. They’re just one of the many companies on standby for the storm. They’ve asked all employees to be ready to come into work, regardless of vacation or other schedules.
For generator or emergency services including waterproofing, drain systems, leaking cracks, or other construction damage, call us at: 1-800-718-1256
For more information about emergency preparedness, go to the Pa. Emergency Management Agency website and the American Red Cross website.
