What To Do and Whom To Call: A Guide To Getting Through Irene

If you're going to be in Hoboken during the impending storm, here are some numbers as well as tips and tricks to get through the weekend.

A command center has been set up in City Hall, which will be open all night. The command center can be reached at: 201-239-6643/6644. 

A shelter has been set up at the Wallace School at 11th and Willow Streets. Pets are also allowed, but must be caged.

Calls are already coming in, with questions about evacuation. The city is still urging all residents to leave town, because of the potential for severe flooding and loss of power.

The police force will also be working, and can be reached at: 201-420-2100. The Fire Department can be reached at: 201-420-2005/2007.

Residents are urged to fill their sinks and bathtubs with water, in case power goes out. Apartments should be stocked with at least three days' worth of water and non-perishable foods.

Cars should be removed from the streets of Hoboken, because the water damage will likely be unrepairable. The city will not be towing vehicles before the storm hits.

The roads need to be clear by 8 p.m. on Saturday night, and all bars and businesses must be closed by then as well.

Irene is still predicted to be a category 1 hurricane, which can cause flood surges to the area. Mayor Dawn Zimmer said on Saturday that she fears flood water can be as high as five feet.

After the rain clears, residents are reminded that they should not go outside and walk through a flooded street. Loose hanging wires can fall and potentially electrocute those standing in the water.

All loose items on balconies, patios and stoops need to be secured or brought inside.

If you're staying in Hoboken, please be sure to have an emergency supply kit on hand. The city advises the following items to be in there:

It is imperative that residents prepare now in case of an emergency. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days. FEMA recommends the following items to include in a basic emergency supply kit:
• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Stick with Patch for live coverage and continuous updates as Irene nears Hoboken.