Nassau County - Long Island, New York

Mangano Urges Residents To Prepare For Hurricane Season Which Begins June 1st

With the 2013 Hurricane Season beginning tomorrow, June 1st, now is the time to update or develop a Disaster Preparedness Plan for yourself and your family. Nassau County Executive Mangano andthe Nassau County Office of Emergency Management urge all residentsto assemble a disaster preparedness kit, make a plan and learn of the risks associated with hurricanes.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June to November, with peak season from mid-August to late October. In its 2013Hurricane Season Outlook,NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecastingan active or extremely active season this year. For the six-month Hurricane Season, NOAA’s Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook says there is a 70% likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 7 to 11 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher). These ranges are well above the seasonal average of 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes.

“Given our location as an island left vulnerable to the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island is susceptible to the powerful and destructive nature of hurricanes, which is why it is important for every Nassau County resident to be prepared for Hurricane Sandy,” said County Executive Mangano. “Residents should take all Hurricane warnings seriously and have a plan in place for their family. Don’t take any chances.”

Having an updated and accurate Family Emergency Plan is a key component to planning for hurricane season. The unique needs of family members, such as the elderly, infants, those with access and functional needs and any pets should be considered. Also, you should inquire about what plans are in place at work and schools in case of emergency. After all of the information is collected, gather your family to discuss how the plan works. Practice your plan at least twice a year and update it according to any issues that arise.

Being informed of the risks associated with hurricane season is an important part of preparedness. You should identify the hazards that are unique to your area. The Nassau County Office of Emergency Management can help pinpoint the hazards in your area and outline the local plans and recommendations for each, which may include evacuations. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and how to secure your property in the event of a hurricane.

Residentscan find information on how to build a preparedness kit on the OEM website. Emergency Go-Kits should be kept by front doors in a duffel bag and include enough supplies for everyone in the household for 5 days, including:

  • First aid kit. Pack a “how to” guide as well.
  • Essential prescription and nonprescription items and medical information.
  • Battery-powered flashlight and radio (or crank radio), extra batteries and a 12-hour glow stick.
  • A change of clothes, plus rainwear, sturdy shoes and protective gloves for everyone.
  • Personal items, eyeglasses and personal care items.
  • Important documents in a waterproof container: drivers’ licenses, wills, birth/marriage certificates, insurance policies, deed or lease papers, recent tax returns, credit card and bank account numbers, Social Security cards, Passport and Home inventory list
  • Make sure you have special items for infants, elderly persons, pets or loved ones with special needs.

Many residents consider their pets as family members. Make sure your pets are taken care of with a Pet Go-Kit, which should include:

  • Your pets’ names, address and phone number
  • Your name, address, phone and cell number
  • Emergency contact - friend or family
  • Your veterinarian’s name and contact info
  • Important Documents
  • Medical records : Medications : Specific Care instructions : Behavioral problems First aid kit / medications
  • Current photos
  • Sturdy leash, collar or harness, muzzles
  • Paper towels for clean-up
  • Food & Bottled Water (3 day supply)
  • Manual can opener & Bowls
  • Water purification tablets
  • Toys and other comfort items
  • Treats, brushes, combs
  • Newspapers and plastic

Enact the Family & Friends Sheltering Plan in the event you are asked to evacuate your home. If you are advised to evacuate, here’s what to do:

  • A Family & Friends Sheltering Plan is recommended for anyone who resides south of Sunrise Highway or north of Route 25A. You should contact a friend or family member that lives outside the zone & make arrangements as this provides the most comfortable way to weather a severe storm.
  • Bring your Emergency Go-Kit
  • Turn off all utilities
  • Take your most reliable vehicle and avoid taking multiple vehicles that create gridlock
  • Utilize evacuation routes listed at www.nassaucountyny.gov/OEM

To review Coastal Evacuation Areas, evacuation routes or learn additional hurricane preparedness information, please visit the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management website at http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/OEM.