Hurricane Sandy “Superstorm” Preparedness Tips

If you don’t have an emergency water supply, begin to store away water immediately. Sewage treatment facilities may fail due to flooding and power outages. You will need a supply of potable water that you can have handy. One gallon of water per person, per day for 72 hours will be sufficient.Run to your ATM/bank and get some emergency money. You will need to break down the currency into small denominations as change may not be available due to panic buying – power outages etc. Singles and fives are your best bet.

If you use special prescription medicine, get your refills right away.

If you live near a low lying area (at sea level) You may need to evacuate. “Batten down your hatches” as best as you can. Board up windows, utilze sandbags, turn off power, gas, make sure to get all of your important items out of your basement up to a higher floor. If you have a backyard, or terrace – get all of your garden furniture & other loose outdoor items packed away. If you can, try and cut away any dead branches from trees that are near your house … they can break away and damge your home in the storm.

If you have a “GO” bag, prepare it now. Make sure you have all of your important papers, toiletries (toothpaste, soap, deodorant, wipes etc.) some food that does not require cooking – (energy bars, trail mix etc) first-aid.

If you own a car or generator. Fill up the tank(s)

Prepare all flashlights, radios, emergency candles. Purchase batteries (if needed). Listen to the NOAA or local weather station for weather updates. If you can make a digital record of your home with photos, images. Make sure it is thorough and that you can verify the date you took the images (for insurance purchases)

Gather comfortable, durable clothing and rain gear. Have it ready if you need to evacuate.

Look up the emergency evacuation center in your respective area NOW. Develop a plan to get to it.

Keep your cellphones fully charged.

Contact relatives, friends that you can stay with in safe areas if you do not wish to stay in a emergency evacuation center if the need arises.

If you own a business that keeps perishable food items, if you have a generator, keep the tank full and make certain it is ready.

If you own a pet, make certain to have it ready for transport, have its food, carrier, chain, muzzle etc ready if you need to leave the premises due to flooding.

If you have a baby, make certain to have non-perishable baby food on hand.

If you have a senior citizen, or someone who is injured, disabled or ill living with you, make certain that they have all they need in terms of supplies, medications etc.  More coming shortly!