With the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season beginning June 1, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, the American Red Cross, PSEG and National Grid urge all residents to update or develop their family emergency plan, emergency go-kit and family and friends sheltering plan.
“Superstorm Sandy taught us that given our location as an island, we are vulnerable to the Atlantic Ocean and susceptible to the powerful and destructive nature of hurricanes,” said County Executive Mangano. “It is critical that residents be prepared for hurricane season and take all hurricane warnings seriously. Don’t take any chances and make sure your emergency go-kit and sheltering plans are in place and ready should emergency management officials determine your neighborhood must evacuate.”
The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June to November, with peak season from mid-August to late October. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting an above-normal season. NOAA predicts a 70 percent likelihood of 11 to 17 named storms, five to nine hurricanes and two to four major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher). An average season produces 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes.
An updated and accurate family emergency plan is a key component to planning for hurricane season. The unique needs of family members, such as the elderly, infants, those with access and functional needs and any pets should be considered. Residents should inquire about what plans are in place at work and schools in case of emergency. After all of the information is collected, gather your family to discuss how the plan works. Practice your plan at least twice a year and update it according to any issues that arise.
The Nassau County Office of Emergency Management has outlined evacuations routes from coastal evacuation areas. Residents should familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and secure their property in the event of a hurricane. To review coastal evacuation areas, evacuation routes or learn additional hurricane preparedness information, please visit the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management website at www.nassaucountyny.gov/OEM.
Residents should assembly an emergency go-kit, keep it by their front door in a duffel bag and include enough supplies for everyone in the household for five days, including:
- First aid kit. Pack a “how to” guide as well.
- Essential prescription and nonprescription items and medical information.
- Battery-powered flashlight and radio (or crank radio), extra batteries and a 12-hour glow stick.
- A change of clothes, plus rainwear, sturdy shoes and protective gloves for everyone.
- Personal items, eyeglasses and personal care items.
- Important documents in a waterproof container: drivers’ licenses, wills, birth/marriage certificates, insurance policies, deed or lease papers, recent tax returns, credit card and bank account numbers, Social Security cards, Passport and home inventory list.
- Make sure you have special items for infants, elderly persons, pets or loved ones with special needs.
Residents can also safeguard their pets by preparing a Pet Go-Kit, which should include:
- Your pets’ names, address and phone number.
- Your name, address, phone and cell number.
- Emergency contact—friend or family.
- Your veterinarian’s name and contact info.
- Important documents.
- Medical records.
- Medications with specific care instructions and behavioral problems.
- First aid kit.
- Current photos.
- Sturdy leash, collar or harness, muzzles.
- Paper towels for clean-up.
- Food and bottled water (three-day supply).
- Manual can opener and bowls.
- Water purification tablets.
- Toys and other comfort items.
- Treats, brushes and combs.
- Newspapers and plastic bags.
Residents should develop a friends and family sheltering plan in the event they are asked to evacuate their home. If you are advised to evacuate, here’s what to do:
- A family and friends sheltering plan is recommended for anyone who resides in Nassau County south of Sunrise Highway or north of Route 25A. You should contact a friend or family member that lives outside the zone & make arrangements as this provides the most comfortable way to weather a severe storm.
- Bring your emergency go-kit.
- Turn off all utilities.
- Take your most reliable vehicle and avoid taking multiple vehicles that create gridlock.
- Utilize evacuation routes listed at www.nassaucountyny.gov/OEM.
Nassau County residents know all too well the threats posed by hurricane season. Now is the time to prepare. Many resources are available for residents prepare, including free Red Cross and NassauNow mobile apps for smartphones and tablets.
