In light of the recent activity in the Atlantic Ocean, Lincoln County Emergency Management Agency wishes to review information on hurricane preparedness: 72 hour disaster kits, and hurricane warnings to our citizens.
Hurricanes that approach New England can speed up dramatically, making it essential to be prepared if there is a potential for a tropical storm or hurricane to effect Maine. The Lincoln County Emergency Management recommends residents start preparing three days before the storm is scheduled to hit.
Review the contents of the disaster supply kit, or if one is not assembled, here are items for residents to consider when planning on sheltering in their home during the storm.
• Three day supply of non-perishable foods, foods that does not require cooking.
• Infant formula and food, if necessary.
• One gallon of water per person, per day for every person in the household; for up to 72 hours.
• Battery or crank powered radio and flashlights, extra batteries.
• First Aid Kit, along with medications for family members stocked to last through 72 hours.
• A landline or plug in telephone that works without electricity.
• A way to keep warm and dry, extra blankets and dry clothes stored in a plastic container.
• Don’t forget the pets! Water and food supplies for up to 72 hours.
• Comfort items, such as a book, board games, and so on.
• Use extreme caution with portable generators; always operate to manufacturer standards to avoid electrical shock.
• If using a camping cook stove or grill, operate outside where the unit was intended to be used. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, ensure that the grill is in a well ventilated area.
Remember to fill the car with gasoline. Secure all outside furniture or other objects that could be caught by the wind. Board up exposed windows, or tape them to reduce the potential for shattering glass. Predetermine an evacuation route to the nearest shelter; have two evacuation routes that are not subject to flooding.
Consider asking a friend or relative out of the affected area to be a point of contact. If an evacuation is necessary, call this person and they will alert other friends and family. This detail is key for the well being of the immediate family and extended family as well, many will be concerned.
As the storm approaches, residents may be tempted to go to the beach to see the waves. This is dangerous. Stay away from the water! The combination of strong winds and powerful surf can lead to any type of injury or even death.
Hurricane advisories are issued at six hour intervals at midnight, 6 a.m., noon and 6 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time. Bulletins provide additional information. Each message gives the name, eye position, intensity and forecast movement of the storm.
A hurricane watch is an alert added to a hurricane advisory covering a specific area and duration. A watch means that hurricane conditions are a real possibility; it does not mean they are definitely going to happen. When a watch is issued, everyone in the area covered by the watch should listen for further advisories and be prepared to act quickly if a hurricane warning is issued.
When a hurricane warning is issued it is an alert added to an advisory when hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours. Hurricane warnings identify coastal areas where winds of at least 74 miles per hour are expected. A warning may also describe coastal areas where dangerously high water or exceptionally high waves are forecasted, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.
For more information, contact the Lincoln County Office of Emergency Management at 882-7559.