Mangano Urges Residents To Be Ready For Hurricane Sandy

With Hurricane Sandy headed toward Long Island, Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano today issued a Hurricane Preparedness Precautionary Alert to remind residents about the importance of assembling an “Emergency Go-Kit” and of having a Family and Friends Sheltering Plan in place.

“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.”

Emergency Go-Kits should be kept by front doors in a duffel bag and include enough supplies for everyone in the household for five (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/hurricane.

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/hurricane.