Michael Petruccelli says; As A Storm Approaches: If you are planning to leave the
area, go early.
Other tips:
- Refill your prescriptions. Make sure you have at least a one-week supply.
- Fill your car’s gas tank. Have the oil, water and tires checked. Gas pumps cannot operate during power outages. Place emergency items inside like booster cables, tire repair kit and spare tire and flashlight with extra batteries.
- If your home may flood, stack valuable items and cover them with plastic.
- Get cash. Credit cards may not work. ATM's my not be operable.
- Secure
your boat and make arrangements for your pets early.
When a Hurricane Watch is issued, a storm may affect our area within 36 hours. This is the time to review your Family Plan and Emergency Survival Kit checklist. - Contact family members to coordinate efforts and exchange plan information.
- Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings.
- Freeze drinking water in plastic jugs.
- Stock up on an emergency water supply. Sterilize bathtub, jugs, bottles, utensils and containers.
- Set up 5-gallon buckets with tight-fitting lids for use as emergency toilets. Line each bucket with a heavy-duty plastic trash bag.
- Install shutters or precut plywood over windows.
- Drop the water level in your pool by 1 or 2 feet. Shock the pool with extra chlorine to compensate for heavy rains.
- Turn off the pool pump. Put outdoor furniture and pool equipment into the pool, but remove after the storm passes to prevent rusting.
- Listen for weather updates and information on local TV or radio. The NOAA Weather Radio is a reliable source. Turn to PCC-TV, Your County Connection, to receive the latest official Pinellas-specific information. Don’t rely on rumors and speculation.
