Irene visits New England

Play it Safe by Staying Safe When Hurricane Irene Visits Massachusetts

The strongest storm to hit the East Coast in decades is upon us. Please be prepared. Experts are calling this storm an "Extraordinary Threat for New England" becasue Massachusetts is 190 miles wide and this storm is 430 miles wide. No matter where you are in New England this storm will effect you. We’ve complied these tips from government websites to help you and your family be prepared for the storm.

• Have an emergency kit which should include: non-perishable food, medicine, water, flashlights, battery powered radio and batteries.
• Make a family plan to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
• Make sure you have adequate pet food and supplies for your animals. If you have to evacuate - take your pets with you. There are many pet friendly shelters and hotels out there. Now is the time to plan.
• Develop a Disaster Supply Kit ‘Go Bag’, with essentials in case you must evacuate quickly.
• If you are asked to evacuate – Evacuate!

You should also:

• Cover your home’s windows with pre-cut plywood to protect your windows from high winds.
• Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
• Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
• Turn off utilities as instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its door closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
• Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage, it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
• Find out how to keep food safe during and after and emergency by visiting www.FoodSafety.gov.