Preparing for Hurricane Irene

After a 5.9 earthquake that shook most of the northeast coast, hurricane Irene is on its way to make landfall to our area Sunday night or early Monday, as a category 1 or 2.

Hurricane Irene’s expected path includes North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts. States have already set precautionary arrangements for the safety of citizens.

New York City will be suspending mass transit on Sunday. Please check the MTA’s temporary site we’ve included at the foot of the page for alerts and schedules.

Here are a few tips on how to prepare for the Hurricane:

1. Make a plan now for what to do  if you need to evacuate.
2. Make note of all available shelters in your area.
3. Keep a folder with your main IDs and documents you would need if evacuated.
4. Secure your home i.e. windows. Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home as your “bunker areas”.
5. Prepare a supply kit that includes water, food, first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, battery operated radio, cash, keys and tools.
6. Keep cell phones fully charged and only use when necessary.
7. For those in Southern NJ living close to lakes, rivers and low laying areas (coastal communities) is a bad idea to attempt to ride out the hurricane. If Katrina and other storms are proof that mandatory evacuations must be heeded, then please find temporary lodging with family, friends or local shelters.