Preparing for Major Storm

Click on link here and download and print the info card. Keep on refridgerator or some other visible place.
(Para informações em português clique aqui.)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Russell Hartenstine

Public Information Officer

Martha's Vineyard Regional Emergency Management Association

(508)-693-5380

emd@westtisbury-ma.gov

Saturday, August 1, 2020

Preparing for a Hurricane

The Regional Emergency Managers want to know if you are ready for a hurricane.

Peak of hurricane season is August and September. Threat of tropical cyclones and other natural hazards continue during COVID-19 pandemic.

Hurricane Isaias is tracking towards the East Coast and is scheduled to arrive early next week. It is too early to know how we will be impacted, or if the track will change, but it is never too early to be prepared for a storm.

Stay Informed

CodeRED is Dukes County's emergency notification system which delivers alerts before severe weather events.https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/978F92D50FBE?fbclid=IwAR3RDTiucEKwX_HNDDq7EKNi3VwHnzUl3jw0j-NSaJ8I1pTqr-VMSUEXUBE

Make an Emergency Plan

Develop a plan with the members of your household to prepare for what to do in a tropical storm including making an evacuation plan, planning for individuals with access and functional needs, and any extra considerations during COVID-19 pandemic including how you might evacuate and where you might evacuate to. www.mass.gov/info-details/make-a-family-emergency-plan

Build an Emergency Kit

Build an emergency kit containing items that will sustain you and your family in the event you are isolated for three to five days without power or unable to go to a store and customize for your family’s needs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, include face coverings, masks, hand sanitizer and other cleaning supplies that you may need. https://www.mass.gov/info-details/build-an-emergency-kit

EMERGENCY SERVICES  9-1-1

REPORT POWER OUTAGES 1-800-592-2000

STORM ADVISORIES & UPDATES  https://www.nhc.noaa.gov

WMVY – 88.7 www.mvy.com

STORM KIT

It is most likely you will be sheltering in place.

• Water, one gallon/person/day, plus pets for 3-5 days 

• A full bathtub to have water for flushing

• Big pots full of water

• At least 3-5 days of non-perishable foods that don’t require cooking

• A can opener and eating utensils

• Flashlight or lantern, with extra batteries

• Candles and matches

• Emergency radio

• Charging devices & batteries for phones and laptops

• Fire extinguisher

• First-aid kit and manual

• Whistle

• A list of names and contact information for neighbors

• A list of credit card and bank account numbers

• Vital documents in a dry location,

• Digital backups of records

• Extra set of house and car keys

• Cash, ID

• A week's supply of medications and duplicate scripts (prescriptions)

• Make arrangements IN ADVANCE for special needs (oxygen, insulin)

• Extra eyeglasses, spare batteries for hearing aids and other devices

AS THE STORM APPROACHES

• Collect rain in barrels

• Prepare a tool kit for repairs and storm debris removal

• Make sure all doors and windows are securely locked

• Have duct tape, plastic sheeting, or tarp on hand

• Stow lawn furniture & other outside items

• Fill vehicle tanks in case of fuel supply interruptions?  (you will have nowhere to go)

• Check in with your neighbors before, during (if safe), and after the storm to see if they need help

• Share your family contact information with your neighbors

FINDING SHELTER IF NEEDED

• Go to your town's website for information on Town and Regional shelters

• Listen to WMVY for important emergency information

SHELTER KIT

• Toiletries, a blanket or sleeping bag, washcloth and towel

• Clothes for 3 days for each person

• Things to entertain kids

• Food, leash, carrier for pets

• Cash, ID

Additional Hurricane Preparation Information: https://www.mass.gov/doc/homeowners-handbook-to-prepare-for-coastal-hazards/download

For more information how to prepare for major storms, hurricane or other disasters and emergencies visit the Dukes County Emergency Management website here and your local town's website for local information.