National Weather Service meteorologists are predicting that Hurricane Irene could pack quite the punch when it hits land this weekend. With 6 to 12 inches of rainfall possible in NYC and wind speeds between 75 and 85 miles per hour, you’ll want to make sure your home and family are prepared for worst case scenario.
There’s still time to assemble a disaster preparedness kit! NSF International recommends these essentials:
— Any family members that require prescription medication should ensure at least a three-day supply of medication is available in their disaster kit
— Extra glasses, contact lens case, and solution
— Antiseptic
— Assorted sizes of safety pins
— Latex gloves
— Moistened towelettes or other cleansing agent, such as soap
— Non-prescription drugs (pain relievers, antacids, etc.)
— Scissors
— Sterile adhesive bandages/gauze pads
— Tweezers
Tools and Emergency Supplies including:
— Battery-operated radio with extra batteries
— Non-electric can opener, utility knife
— Cash, an extra credit card, or traveler’s checks
— Disinfectant, such as household chlorine bleach
— Fire extinguisher
— Flashlight and extra batteries
— Matches in waterproof container
— Paper, pen, or pencil
— Personal hygiene items, soap
— Plastic bucket with tight lid
— Plastic garbage bags, ties (for personal sanitation uses)
— Plastic storage containers
— Pliers, shut-off wrench (to turn off household gas and water)
— Whistle
What about your home and property? The NYC Department of Buildings has some tips that everyone should remember ahead of the storm:
— Bring inside loose, lightweight objects such as lawn furniture, potted plants, garbage cans, garden tools and toys.
— Anchor objects that would be unsafe outside, such as gas grills or propane tanks.
— Close up and secure patio umbrellas.
— Secure retractable awnings.
— Clear rooftop drains, gutters and leaders.
— Secure all windows.
— Remove aerial antennas and satellite television dishes.
