Prepare Now for Hurricane

With Hurricane Irene threatening to hit the area this weekend, members of the Community Emergency Response Team, part of the Grafton Emergency Management Agency, suggest that residents prepare now for a possible emergency.

They suggest having the following on hand. Having these items organized can help, particularly if you are required to go to the emergency shelter.

Water, one gallon per person per day, for three days

Food, at least three 3 day supply of non-perishable food

Infant formulas, diapers

Non-electric can opener

Plastic plates, cups, towels, plastic utensils

Lighter, matches in water-proof container

Radio, battery or hand-crank with extra batteries

Flashlight, regular or LED, with extra batteries

First aid kit

Whistle, used to signal for help

Dust masks, to help filter pollutants in the air

Plastic and duct tape, used to build a shelter in place

Towelettes, garbage bags and bag ties, used for personal sanitation

Wrench or pliers to shu off utilities

Pet food and water, non-perishable, in waterproof container for three days.

Medications, have a list of all needed and keep medications in one place

Documents, make copies of insurance, identification, bank accounts, etc., and place in a waterproof container.

Unscented chlorine bleach, nine parts water to one part bleach for sanitation. 

Medicine dropper, 16 drops bleach to one gallon of water for drinking. Let drinking water sit for at least a half hour.

Fire extinguisher

Papers, pens, pencils. Toys and games for children.

Keys, extra keys to house, car and anything else that is locked.

Personal items, soap, shampoo, toothpaste and brush, combs, etc.

Clothing list: Type of clothing for each person, two pair of shoes.

List of sleeping bags and blankets for each person and where they are kept

Plastic container: Place as many of the above items in container. List other items in a notebook and where they are, and put notebook in container.