Bronxville Issues Storm Alert to Residents

The following alert was issued from the Village of Bronxville's EAlert system.

HURRICANE SANDY ALERT #1

Bronxville Police in conjunction with the department of public works and government officials are preparing for a potential hurricane Monday and Tuesday.

We have been in contact with our state, county and local partners as we prepare for this potentially dangerous storm.

This partnership also includes local utilitiy companies and we will be closely monitoring the track of Hurricane Sandy throughout the weekend.

It is extremely important that you prepare for the possibility that the Hurricane will cause flooding, power outages and road closures.

Residents that live in flood prone locations should move beyond the planning stage and begin toi move valuables to higher ground and follow flood guidelines listed below.

Residents living in these areas are directed to move their vehicles to the Kraft Ave. lot, Kensington Rd. and Sagamore Rd. and parking enforcement in these areas will be suspended in the event of flooding.

Vehicles left in flood prone areas will be towed away at the owners expense.

Here are some guildelines to follow in preparation for the storm:

• Make a family emergency plan, which includes identifying an out-of-town contact, making sure all family members know how to text-message, and more.

• Ensure you aren't running low on personal toiletries and prescription medication.

• Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio.

• Make sure your cell phone is charged. You might want to buy a portable power device, which you can charge in advance and plug your phone into later.

• Assemble a disaster supplies kit with food, water, medical supplies and a battery-powered radio. Include batteries, flashlights and other items. You should have enough to get through three days after a hurricane hits. The National Hurricane Center has a printable checklist here. You might want to keep a similar kit in a backpack or tote bag if you're told to evacuate.

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CHECKLIST ITEMS:

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

Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
— non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
— foods for infants or the elderly
— snack foods
— non-electric 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

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 reseal able 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

Have a full tank of gas in your vehicle, cash, and your disaster supplies kit ready to go.

HOME:

• Make sure your important documents (including birth and marriage certificates, social security cards, passports, wills, deeds and financial and insurance records) are in a flood-proof location or safe deposit box.

• Turn refrigerator and freezer to maximum cold. If your power goes out, open and close them sparingly.

• If you have shutters that can be closed, close and secure them.

• If you know the water in your home stops running if the power goes out, fill your bathtub and other large containers with water for bathing, flushing toilets, and cleaning. Do not drink this water.

• Cover your windows with plywood if you think your home could be in danger of flying projectiles.

• Garage doors are often the first feature to fail in a storm. Reinforce all garage doors.

YARD:

Trim any weak, dead or overhanging branches from trees and bushes.

Clear rain gutters and downspouts.

Secure your lawn furniture, planters and other outdoor items, or bring them inside.

Turn off propane tanks. Shut off other utilities if emergency officials advise you to do so.

IF YOU'RE TOLD TO EVACUATE:

Turn off all utilities if authorities advise you to do so.

Leave immediately. If you think there might be a chance you'll be evacuated, pack in advance.

Stick to designated evacuation routes. If you need help, this is the most likely place to find it.

DURING THE STORM:

Do not go outside, even in the storm's early stages, due to the potential for flying debris.

Close all doors, stay clear of windows, and keep curtains and blinds shut.

Be aware that a sudden lull in the storm could just be the eye of the storm passing over. The storm will resume.

AFTER THE STORM:

Be careful when you go outside -- watch for downed power lines, broken glass and damage to building foundations.

Do not attempt to walk or drive through water. Standing water may be electrically charged from power lines, and moving water only six inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

Don't drink tap water until you know it is safe.

If you have property damage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

Keep in mind that most insurance policies require flood insurance to be purchased at least 30 days in advance before that portion of the policy is activated. Consider purchasing flood insurance so that you'll be covered for next time.

WHILE THE POTENTIAL EXISTS FOR THIS TO BE A DANGEROUS STORM BE SURE THAT THE VILLAGE STAFF IS PREPARED AND TRAINED TO RESPOND TO ANY EMERGENCY AND WE HAVE ALREADY BEGUN OUR PLANNING  TO INSURE PUBLIC SAFETY DURING AND AFTER THE STORM.

CHIEF CHRISTOPHER SATRIALE
ROCCO CIRCOSTA, SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

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