Lawrence Memorial Hospital Braces for Irene

Lawrence Memorial Hospital in Medford is bracing for Hurricane Irene, preparing for patient care in case of power outages, according to a press release.

The hospital has tested its emergency generators and has distributed flashlights to all patient care units, the press release, issued Friday morning, said.

Supplies to cover blown out windows have been stocked up on, extra water has been brought on site, and plans have been made to move patients to other parts of the hospital if there is damage to the building, the release said.

"Plans have been developed to move patients to safer locations in the hospitals should strong winds blow out widows in patient rooms and supplies like duct tape, plastic tarp and plywood have been purchased," the release said.

Members of the emergency preparedness team will be on call 24/7 during this weekend to address any storm related issues impacting the hospitals, the release said.