Red Cross offers hurricane preparedness tips

Staff

Published Monday, September 15, 2003

Suffolk News-Herald

Hurricane Isabel is headed toward the east coast, and while the exact track of the storm was not known as of Monday, gasoline powered generators, plywood and tape were disappearing fast in Suffolk as people prepared to weather what may become the storm of the century.

While people prepared their homes and businesses for the worst storm since 1933, the Suffolk Chapter of the American Red Cross and Obici Hospital were also preparing.

Faye Byrum, executive director of the Suffolk Red Cross office, said local people should keep radio and televisions tuned to receive weather messages and they should also take steps to protect their homes and families.

"By familiarizing yourself with the warning messages being broadcast and planning ahead, you reduce the chances of injury or major property damage," said Byrum. "Also, remember the Red Cross offers a brochure on how to prepare for and respond appropriately in the event of a hurricane. They are free and available at our Clay Street office."

Byrum also offered the following tips on preparing the home and family for the hurricane.

?Listen constantly to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.

?If in a mobile home, check tie downs and evacuate immediately.

?Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home.

Avoid elevators.

If at home:

?Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.

?Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy.

?Avoid using open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.

?If power is lost, turn off appliances to reduce power surge when electricity is restored.

?If officials indicate evacuation is necessary:

?If time permits, and you live in an identified surge zone, elevate furniture or move it to a higher floor to protect it from flooding.

?Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.

?Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing.

?Take blankets, sleeping bags and prescription medicines to shelter.

?Tell someone outside of your storm area where you are going.

?Lock your home and leave immediately.

?If flooding is imminent, consider the following suggestions:

Move valuables out of basements and first-floor areas.

Raise and secure appliances such as water heaters, air conditioners, washers and dryers.

Install backflow valves in plumbing sewer traps to prevent back-ups into the house.

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management, in cooperation with the National Weather Service offers the following safety tips to protect lives and reduce damage before, during and after the hurricane:

Before the storm

?Determine now where you will go and what route you will take if told to evacuate. Hampton Roads residents can find hurricane evacuation maps in the front of their phone books and may choose to go inland to a hotel, a friend or relative's home or a local public shelter.

Pets are not allowed in public shelters and many lodging establishments, so alternate care arrangements should be made in advance.

?Prepare a hurricane supplies kit with a minimum three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, first-aid kit, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, and other essential items that can be consolidated into a portable container should evacuation become necessary. Anyone riding out the storm at home should be prepared to be without power, telephone, water or other utilities for three to seven days.

?Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio for National Weather Service reports and severe weather warnings.

?Cut back dead trees and limbs and purchase storm shutters or pre-cut plywood for all windows to reduce wind damage. Re-check supplies of plywood, tools, batteries, tarps and plastic sheeting for roof repairs.

Take pictures of the property before the storm to help validate claims and remember to carry policies with you in an evacuation.

When storm approaching

?Listen to local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.

A hurricane watch means possible danger.

If the danger increases, a hurricane warning will be issued.

?Bring in garbage cans, lawn furniture and other items that could blow away.

?Check vehicles to ensure they are fueled and in proper working order for an evacuation.

?Evacuate immediately if told to do so.

During the storm

?Remain indoors and away from windows if not advised to evacuate.

If necessary, seek refuge in an interior, windowless room.

Use a mattress as protection from falling debris.

After the storm

?Listen to local radio stations for official disaster relief information and instructions.

?Be prepared to do without power, telephone or any outside services for a week or more.

?Watch out for downed power lines, weakened structures, rodents and snakes, and avoid standing water.

?Avoid drinking tap water. Only eat foods you are absolutely sure are safe.

?Be extra careful when handling power tools, gas lanterns, generators and matches.

?Avoid using candles as a light source. Deadly fires can result.

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