Tips On What To Do To Prepare For A Hurricane

Officials are urging people to take the necessary precautions in advance of the nasty weather expected early next week from Hurricane Sandy.

All residents should assemble an emergency storm kit that includes the following items:

• Fresh batteries
• Flashlights
• First aid kit
• Bottled water
• Packaged food (at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable goods)
• Portable radio
• An insulated cooler
• A list of emergency contact numbers

Readers in coastal areas could possibly be evacuated. If evacuation is necessary, evacuees to do the following before leaving:

• Fuel and service family vehicles.
• Bring in light-weight objects such as garbage cans, garden tools, toys and lawn furniture.
• Prepare to cover all windows and doors with shutters or other shielding materials.
• Notify neighbors and a family member outside of the warned area of your evacuation plans.

For those staying at home:

• Turn refrigerator to maximum cold and keep it closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
• Unplug small appliances.
• Fill bathtub and large containers with water in case clean tap water is unavailable. Use water in bathtubs for cleaning and flushing only.

More comprehensive hurricane preparedness recommendations from NOAA