Generators, Sump Pumps Sell Big

With Hurricane Irene expected to strike New England this weekend, Grafton residents are flocking to hardware stores and supermarkets to prepare for the storm’s forecasted high winds and heavy rains.

At , clerk Matthew O’Neil said yesterday was twice as busy as usual.

“It’s been brisk,” he said. “We sold out of generators, and we’re starting to see the sump pumps go.”

The threat of power outages and flooding means flashlights, batteries, and sandbags are also flying off the shelves. O’Neil said he hasn’t seen any hurricane oil lamps sell yet, but they are another option if electricity is cut.

It’s also likely that checkout lines at in Grafton will be extra long leading up to Irene.

Stop & Shop spokeswoman Suzi Robinson said that whenever a significant storm looms, customers look to stock up on food, water, toiletries, batteries, and even charcoal for grills in case electricity is off for an extended period of time.

She recommends planning to have enough food and water (one gallon a day per person) for three to seven days. And don't your forget pets.

Stop & Shop will keep an eye on the supply level of essentials to keep shelves stocked through the weekend, according to Robinson.

“We never want to run out, but sometimes it’s inevitable,” she said. “But we’ve weathered some pretty bad storms to say the least.”

And what is O’Neil’s advice once people have their food, water, and flashlights ready for Sunday?

“Make sure anything outside is tied down, and just ride it out,” he said.