Flashlights, Batteries Fly Off Shelves in Rivertowns Hardware Stores

Joe Galano, owner of on Main Street, loves storms.

"I must have sold more than 150 flashlights and lanterns today," he said, pointing to a display case reminiscent of a toy store on the day before Christmas. "Egad. It's a good thing we have another delivery of flashlights coming in tomorrow."

Dobbs Ferry residents are taking the threat of just as seriously, clearing out Readers Hardware of flashlights and LED lanterns.

"We're emptying out quickly, but we're getting re-stocked before Friday," assured Craig Campanaro, Readers' owner. 

Hurricane Irene is expected to arrive in Westchester on Sunday afternoon, carrying "torrential rain" with wind gusts up to 106 miles per hour, Accuweather reports. By the end of the day, we may get more than 6.5 inches of rain.

Campanaro recommends buying an LED lantern because they're "bright, free-standing and last a long time." (At Readers, lanterns cost $12.99.)

on Warburton Avenue was also buzzing with customers on Thursday, many of whom hovered around the flashlights and batteries.

"Another thing many people will need is a sump pump," Irvington's Galano said. "There may be a lot of basements flooding this weekend."

He also suggested buying a battery-operated radio. "Because what are you going to do if you lose electricity and can't use your TV or plug-in radios? Sit in your car?"

All three Rivertowns hardware stores will be open on Saturday—some after hours. Irvington Hardware will be open on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as well. 

"We're here for our customers in inclement weather," Galano said.

The Red Cross recommends compiling a hurricane kit including:

• Water—one gallon per person, per day (3 day supply for evacuation, 2 week supply for home)
• Food—non perishable, easy to prepare items (3 day supply for evacuation, 2 week supply for home)
• Flashlight
• Battery powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7 day supply) and medical items
• Multi purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket
• Map(s) of the area

Rivertowns hardware stores:

• Hastings:
• Dobbs Ferry:
• Irvington: