WPCNR WESTCHESTER COUNTY CLARION-LEDGER. From Department of Communications. September 15, 2003: Westchester County is mobilizing for the possible impact of Hurricane Isabel later this week, and County Executive Andy Spano urged residents to take preparatory steps as well.

“We are watching this hurricane closely, and reports are that it could affect our area Thursday evening,” said Spano. “While people should not panic – after all it could miss our area -- we are taking all steps possible now to prepare, and I advise residents of Westchester to do the same. A major hurricane hitting our area could result in power outages, loss of phone service and disruptions to our water and gas systems. Each home should be prepared to ‘go it alone’ for at least three days.”

Spano added that later today the county’s website (www.westchestergov.com) will have a special link to an emergency site where the county will post up-to-date information as well as the latest weather reports so residents can track the storm.

The county is working with local officials and police departments, providing maps that pinpoint areas that are vulnerable to flooding and preparing sandbags to shore up those areas. Hospitals, schools and businesses are being contacted to offer assistance and open lines of communication. The county has also begun taking steps to prepare backup systems should its sewage treatment plants be swamped by the storm.

The county’s Bee-Line system, as well as its para-transit system, which transports handicapped and elderly residents, are preparing to adjust schedules and notify riders should the storm become too severe.

Preparing for the Hurricane:  You & your home

• Develop a household disaster plan. Avoid separating your family. Contact family members outside the area to designate them as a clearing house for local family that may be able to call points outside the area, but not be able to communicate locally.

• Do not use candles or kerosene lamps as light sources, as they can pose a fire hazard. Instead, keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries on hand.
• Clean rain gutters and outside drains around your home.
• Think of storms we have had in the past with heavy rainfall. Recall what clogged leaked or flooded areas or other problems resulted that you may be able to address before the next storm.
• Look around outside, bring in any light objects, loose patio furniture, garbage cans, toys or articles that could become a hazard should they become airborne in the storm.
• Tie down heavy objects, such as barbeques, lawn ornaments etc. Turn off propane tanks.
•  If you have a boat make sure it is securely moored. If you have a trailer, i.e. camping etc, make sure it is securely tied down.
• Fill you cars’ gas tank.
• Secure any shutters, cover or tape large windows if possible.
• Have extra cash on hand, ATM machines may be out of service.
• Remember to check on relatives and neighbors, especially those with disabilities or special needs. They may need your assistance in their storm preparations.
• Seal valuables and important papers in water tight baggies.

Prepare for Water and Sewer Disruptions

• To keep perishable food cold, freeze water in plastic jugs and use in freezer or coolers. Fill up other emergency water containers.
• Clean jugs, bottles and other containers. Scrub bathtubs thoroughly, sponge and swab with regular, unscented liquid chlorine bleach, then rinse. Let the tub and other containers dry. Fill with water.
• If you have a pool, do not drain it completely. Instead, drop the level by one or two feet. Submerge outdoor furniture and pool equipment in the pool. Turn off electricity to pool pump. Add extra chlorine to compensate for heavy rains.
• Keep five-gallon buckets with tight-fitting lids for use as emergency toilets. Line each bucket with a heavy-duty plastic trash bag
• See food supply preparation for an emergency for more information.

Prepare for Power Disruptions

• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when absolutely necessary, and then close quickly.
• Unplug appliances to prevent damage in case of an electrical power surge.
• Authorities will instruct you if you should turn off utilities.
• See power outage preparedness for more information.