Storm Preparation: Do You Have A Checklist?

"Sandy" is gaining strength in the Caribbean and appears increasingly likely to hit the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions between Sunday and Wednesday, bringing heavy rains, strong winds and flooding.

Local government officials throughout the region are urging residents to prepare for a potentially intense storm.

To do that, here are some tips:

Emergency Contacts List - If you don't have one, put it together now.

Water – Keep at least one gallon per person per day

Food and other provisions – Prepare a three-day supply of non-perishable (canned or dried) food. If you have pets, make sure you have enough food and water for them, too.

Flashlights: Have them, and have extra batteries

A first-aid kit: Have one for your home, and a seven-day supply of medications

Personal documents – Medication list and medical information, proof of address

Extra cash – ATMs and credit card machines may not work in the event of a power outage. Pick up cash in advance.

Charge your cell phone – Keep chargers and an extra batter on hand

Fill your gas tank and set aside an extra set of car and house keys

Secure your property – Bring inside bikes, lawn furniture, etc.

Close windows, doors and hurricane shutters if you have them

Smoke detectors – Make sure they have fresh batteries and are operating properly

Generators – If you have one, review the instructions

What to do during the storm:

• Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food

• Turn off or unplug propane tanks, electronic equipment and appliances

• Stay indoors. Drive only if necessary. If a road has been blocked off, do not drive around safety barriers. Emergency officials say flood waters are extremely dangerous and can hide other dangers, such as collapsed roads or other obstructions.

• During power outages, don’t use candles, they can be a fire hazard

• Don’t use gas cooking ranges for heating your home because of carbon monoxide hazards

• Wear protective clothing and closed-toed shoes

• Use your cell phone for emergency calls only, to conserve battery life

• Don’t bring generators indoor

To check on power service conditions: 

- In Rockland, click here