Politics & Government

Hurricane Irene: Seven Things To Do Before the Storm

Hurricane could cause serious damage throughout the area beginning sometime Sunday.

Residents are being urged to prepare for the worst, as Hurricane Irene aproaches New Jersey.

The storm is expected to arrive in the area by Sunday, and some forecasters say the storm has to the potential to be a very large and powerful hurricane when it does.

Such storms can be unpredictable—Hurricane Floyd had degraded to a tropical storm when it reached New Jersey, but unleashed a massive rainfall—and subsequent flooding—when the storm stalled over area mountains.

Find out what's happening in Warrenwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Warren Township Emergency Management Coordinator Jane Asch is urging residents to consider the American Red Cross recommendations for preparing for the storm.

"Residents should be prepared to be self sustaining for 72 hours allowing first responders to deal with emergencies," she said.

Find out what's happening in Warrenwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Among the recommendations often overlooked are:

  • Fill your vehicle gas tanks.
  • Put away lawn furniture and outdoor items which could be hurled by high winds.
  • Set your freezers and refridgerators to the coldest setting before the storm arrives and avoid open the doors. If the power supply is affected, this will help protect your food for a longer period of time (don't forget to return settings after the storm!).
  • Make sure your have fresh batteries for your flashlights.
  • It's best to have a three-day supply of water—flooding can cause contaminants to enter the water supply, making it unsafe for drinking or cooking for several days. You'll need one gallon per person per day.
  • Cash on hand: have enough to make your food purchases after the storm if debit and credit card processing is down.
  • Turn off propane tanks or supply lines to outdoor gas grills.


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