Connecticut Hurricane Preparedness Procedures-Irene Is Barrelling Her Way Here

Connecticut Hurricane Preparedness Procedures-Irene Is Barrelling Her Way Here

Connecticut is getting ready for the impending arrival of Hurricane Irene this weekend.  The last hurricane to hit the Northeast with this kind of intensity was Hurricane Gloria back in 1985.  While state agencies are making preparations for Irene's arrival, make sure that you are prepared as well. 

With the strong winds and heavy rains heading our way, there are many towns in Connecticut that are in low lying areas and prone to heavy flooding.  If you live in such an area make sure that you take the necessary steps to protect your home by boarding windows and bringing patio furniture or any items that can become airborne indoors. 

Have evacuation plans in place in advance of Irene's arrival.  Please DON'T wait for a hurricane of this size to arrive before leaving as your safety is at risk if you wait until the last minute.

Here is a list of some of the things you can do to prepare yourself and supplies you may need. 

With intensity of the winds associated with hurricanes, power outages become the norm rather than the exception.  Your refrigerator and freezer should be turned to their highest setting.  Keeping the door closed as much as possible will help food last a longer.

Have a minimum of a 3-day supply of easy to prepare and non-perishable food items

Make certain you have at least a 3-day supply of water - one gallon per person per day

A full tank of gas in your vehicle

Other items to have on hand include:

Non-electric can-opener

Battery powered radio

Flashlight

Extra batteries

7-day supply of medications

Medical items including hearing aids, cane, syringes, glasses and contact lenses

Personal hygiene and sanitation items

Cell phones with chargers

Extra blankets and pillows

Extra cash-ATM's wil be inoperable in there is a power outage.

Supplies for babies - bottles, baby food, diapers and formula

Snacks & drinks for children - dried fruit, crackers, granola bars and juice boxes

Toys, games & books

Paper plates and plastic utensils

Multi-purpose tool

Important documents - deed/lease to home, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports, lists of medication and pertinent medical information

Pet supplies - food, litter, bowl, carrier, collar, leash and ID

Rain gear, extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes

A camera for photos of any damage

For more information and resources, the State of Connecticut has set up a page on its website.  CLICK HERE to check it out.

Hurricane Irene has the potential to be very dangerous. Please take every precaution for the safety and well-being of your family and remember to check in on neighbors who may be elderly and in need of assistance.   Traveling will be extremely treacherous so please stay off the roads and highways unless it is an emergency.

Copyright © 2011 by Donna Bigda, All Rights Reserved ...*Connecticut Hurricane Preparedness Procedures-Irene Is Barrelling Her Way Here"