Red Cross Says Be Prepared for Some Nasty Weather

At 120 mph on Wednesday night, Hurricane Irene only promises to grow stronger by the time she hits us on Sunday. She could do as much damage as Hurricane Gloria, ripping down trees and power lines and causing problems throughout the area.

Do you know how to prepare your family for such a weather event?

The Red Cross says the first step is to know the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning. A watch means hurricane conditions are a threat within 48 hours, and a warning means conditions are expected within 36 hours, according to the Red Cross.

Here is a before-the-storm checklist from the American Red Cross:

• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed.
• Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (bicycles, lawn furniture).
• Close windows, doors and hurricane shutters. If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood.
• Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
• Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
• Fill your car’s gas tank.
• Talk with members of your household and create an evacuation plan. Planning and practicing your evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.
• Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for your pets to be cared for.
• Evacuate if advised by authorities. Be careful to avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.
• Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program website at www.FloodSmart.gov.