Northport Prepares for 'Frankenstorm' Sandy

Northport Village is making emergency preparations as Hurricane Sandy tracks toward Long Island.

The Highway Department has cleaned out drains and storm basins to facilitate stormwater drainage and has cut down dead trees or branches that may fall on homes or powerlines. Village personnel will be on call as the storm approaches and Harbormaster Tony Graziano will be monitoring the waterfront in the case of severe flooding.

In the case of any fire or medical emergency call the Northport Fire Department at 631-757-1111. For any other emergency or concern, call the Northport Police Department at 631-261-7500. Evacuation information can be received through those departments as well.

The Northport Fire and Police Departments urge residents to follow the emergency preparedness tips below:

• Make a video or take photos of your property. Be sure to record every room in the house making sure to clearly document each room’s contents. Record the interior and the exterior of your basement/cellar. Record the interior and exterior of your garage and/or out buildings. Record the interior and exterior of your personal vehicles/boats/RV etc.

• Secure and stow away all outdoor furnishings, tools and decorations including potted/hanging plants.

• If you have a generator(s), be they are filled with fuel and an adequate supply of additional fuel is available. If you have a working fireplace or wood stove, have a supply of dry firewood for the evenings.

• If electrical power is out for several days, you should remember that ATM machines may not be working. Local businesses also might not be able to process credit card transactions. Have a small amount of cash on hand.

Make sure you have these provisions at home in the case of a prolonged power outage:

• Water & Ice - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days

• Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days (cooler with ice) — non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices — foods for infants or the elderly — snack foods — non-electric (manual) can opener — cooking tools / fuel — paper plates / plastic utensils

• Blankets / Pillows, etc. Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs Special Items - for babies and the elderly Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes

• Flashlight / Batteries / enclosed candles (no open flames).

• Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio

• Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set

• Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods

• Keys

• Toys, Books and Games

• Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag — insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.

• Tools - keep a set with you during the storm

• Vehicle fuel tanks filled

• Pet care items/ proper identification / immunization records / medications — ample supply of food and water — a carrier or cage — muzzle and leash

"The village is paying particular attention to this because we are a waterfront community," said Village Trustee Tom Kehoe.

In December, the village plans to send out forms to collect emergency contact information for all persons with medical conditions. In the case of an emergency, the contact information will better assist the village in responding to at-risk persons who live alone or require special attention.

Patch will continue to update the community as additional information becomes available from the village.