Bronxville Police Release First Hurricane Irene Alert

The Village of Bronxville Police Department in conjuction with the Department of Public Works and government officials are preparing for a potential hurricane Saturday night into Sunday.

We have been in contact with our state, county and local partners as we prepare for this potentially dangerous storm. This partnership includes all local utilities as well. We will continue to closely monitor the status and forecasted track of Hurricane Irene as the weekend approaches and will issue further alerts as necessary. It is extremely important at this time that we all prepare for the possibility that the hurricane will cause flooding, power outages and road closures.

While we all should begin our preparations for the storm those that live in flood prone locations should move beyond the planning stage and begin to move valuables to higher ground and prepare for flooding.

To follow are some guidelines to follow as we prepare for this storm:

• Make a family emergency plan, which includes identifying an out-of-town contact, making sure all family members know how to text-message, and more.

• Ensure you aren't running low on personal toiletries and prescription medication.

• Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio.

• Make sure your cell phone is charged. You might want to buy a portable power device, which you can charge in advance and plug your phone into later.

• Assemble a disaster supplies kit with food, water, medical supplies and a battery-powered radio. Include batteries, flashlights and other items. You should have enough to get through three days after a hurricane hits. The National Hurricane Center has a printable checklist here. You might want to keep a similar kit in a backpack or tote bag if you're told to evacuate.

CHECKLIST ITEMS:

• Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days

• Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days

— non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
— food for infants or the elderly
— snack food
— non-electric can opener
— cooking tools / fuel
— paper plates / plastic utensils

• Blankets / Pillows, etc.

• Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes

• First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs

• Special Items - for babies and the elderly

• Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes

• Flashlight / Batteries

• Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio

• Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set

• Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods

• Keys

• Toys, Books and Games

• Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag

— insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.

• Tools - keep a set with you during the storm

• Vehicle fuel tanks filled

• Pet care items

— proper identification / immunization records / medications
— ample supply of food and water
— a carrier or cage
— muzzle and leash

• Have a full tank of gas in your vehicle, cash, and your disaster supplies kit ready to go.

HOME:

• Make sure your important documents (including birth and marriage certificates, social security cards, passports, wills, deeds and financial and insurance records) are in a flood-proof location or safe deposit box.

• Turn refrigerator and freezer to maximum cold. If your power goes out, open and close them sparingly.

• If you have shutters that can be closed, close and secure them.

• If you know the water in your home stops running if the power goes out, fill your bathtub and other large containers with water for bathing, flushing toilets, and cleaning. Do not drink this water.

• Cover your windows with plywood if you think your home could be in danger of flying projectiles.

• Garage doors are often the first feature to fail in a storm. Reinforce all garage doors.

YARD:

• Trim any weak, dead or overhanging branches from trees and bushes.

• Clear rain gutters and downspouts.

• Secure your lawn furniture, planters and other outdoor items, or bring them inside.

• Turn off propane tanks. Shut off other utilities if emergency officials advise you to do so.

IF YOU'RE TOLD TO EVACUATE:

• Turn off all utilities if authorities advise you to do so.

• Leave immediately. If you think there might be a chance you'll be evacuated, pack in advance.

• Stick to designated evacuation routes. If you need help, this is the most likely place to find it.

DURING THE STORM:

• Do not go outside, even in the storm's early stages, due to the potential for flying debris.

• Close all doors, stay clear of windows, and keep curtains and blinds shut.

• Be aware that a sudden lull in the storm could just be the eye of the storm passing over. The storm will resume.

AFTER THE STORM:

• Be careful when you go outside -- watch for downed power lines, broken glass and damage to building foundations.

• Do not attempt to walk or drive through water. Standing water may be electrically charged from power lines, and moving water only six inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

• Don't drink tap water until you know it is safe.

• If you have property damage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

• Keep in mind that most insurance policies require flood insurance to be purchased at least 30 days in advance before that portion of the policy is activated. Consider purchasing flood insurance so that you'll be covered for next time.

Whie the potential exists for this to be a dangerous storm, be sure that the village staff is prepared and trained to respond to any emergeny and we have already begun our planning for the weekend to insure public safety during and after the storm.

For local residents who have not yet signed up for their village's Electronic Alerts, subscriptions can be made here: Bronxville, Eastchester and Tuckahoe.