This has been quite a week for those of us living in the Lake Anna area. We had an interesting Tuesday when many of us* experienced our first earthquake ever. It was quite a surprise and seems hardly possible that it really happened.
Right now we are under a Tropical Storm Watch. It will be interesting to see when that changes.
However, we are faced with the likely prospect of a hurricane hitting our area. This is something we are more familiar with but definitely a cause for concern. Although most of us have lived through more than one hurricane it always helps to be reminded of the things that we can do to be prepared.
Below are some suggestions from the American Red Cross.
- Get a three-day supply of water ready for each person (one gallon per person, per day) on hand, along with food that doesn't require refrigeration, flashlights, a battery-operated radio and a first aid kit.
- Be sure you have several days' supply of any prescriptions you or family members are taking.
- Plan routes to emergency shelters and register family members with special needs with local authorities as required. Be sure to check your calendar from Virginia Dominion. It provides us with specific instructions that are very helpful.
- Make plans for pets. Have extra food on hand (and sufficient water as well), as well as any medications they need on a regular basis.
- Bring items inside that can be picked up by the wind. That means things out on your deck, yard, and for those of us that have docks, any furniture or "toys" there.
- As the storm nears, turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings and keep them closed as much as possible so food will last longer if the power goes out.
- Turn off any propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
- Fill your vehicle's gas tank.
- If high wind is forecast, close windows and doors. Close and board up windows and doors with plywood. (So many of us around the lake have loads of windows and sliding/french doors making this a difficult challenge. Guess we'll have to cross our fingers on this one.)
Time will tell just how bad Hurricane Irene will turn out to be, not only here, but all up and down the East Coast. Be safe!
* I had a prior earthquake experience while living in Alaska.
Comments(16)