Rockland residents urged to be prepared during hurricane season

Rockland County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef and the County Office of Fire & Emergency Services urge residents to be prepared for the 2013 hurricane coastal storm season that began June 1st and will continue through November 30th.

 "Last October Rockland residents experienced the devastating effects of Superstorm Sandy,” said Vanderhoef.  “Being prepared is essential. Residents should review their family plans, stock up on emergency supplies and be aware of approaching weather conditions.”

Residents can monitor local radio and television stations to keep track of weather conditions. NOAA Weather Radio provides the most current weather information. Residents can opt to receive emergency related information via cell phone, email or text messaging at www.nyalert.gov or call 1-888-697-6972.

Rockland officials stress the importance of individual preparedness by taking the following precautionary measures: 

·   Review your household disaster plan.  Know how to contact all family members at all times.  Identify an out-of-town friend or family member to be the “emergency family contact.” Then make certain all family members have that number. Designate a family emergency meeting point; some familiar location where the family can meet in the event the home is inaccessible.

·  Prepare an emergency phone list of people and organizations that may need to be called.  Include children’s schools, doctors, child/senior care providers, and insurance agents.

·  Ensure that enough non-perishable food and water supplies are on hand.  Make sure battery-operated radios and flashlights are available and have an ample supply of batteries. Have a first aid kit available and make sure there is an ample supply of medicines on hand for those who require them.

·   Know the best sources for up to the minute Rockland County specific updates. Emergency Services personnel will update residents via social media at www.twitter.com/rockofes or visit current postings at www.facebook.com/rcfireandemergency. Local radio and television stations that will provide official information include:  WHUD 100.7 FM, WRCR 1300 AM and Rockland County’s Resident Information Station 1640 AM.

·   Know the hurricane and storm risks in your area; be knowledgeable of storm surge history and elevation. Learn your community’s warning signals and evacuation plans and review safe routes inland and local sheltering plans.

·   Make arrangements on where to relocate pets during a storm since most shelters do not allow pets.

·  Store important documents – insurance policies, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security cards, etc. – in a waterproof container.  Also, have cash (in small bills), checkbook, credit and ATM cards readily available.

Individuals with specific questions can contact Information Rockland at 845-364-2020. For general emergency preparedness information residents should visit the New York State Office of Homeland Security website at www.dhses.ny.gov.