Emergency Management officials are working closely with the National Weather Service to monitor the threat to our area from Hurricane Sandy.  During a weather briefing this morning, it was noted several times that this is a "very fluid situation" ... meaning that it is difficult to give any definite forecast for our area based on  the predictor models, which do not align and show impact in two different coastal areas.  Where Sandy makes landing will greatly determine the impact for our area.  There is a very real threat that we will receive heavy winds (25 - 30 MPH beginning Monday morning and increasing throughout the day with gusts up to 40 MPH by evening), up to 3 inches of rain from Sunday evening until Tuesday as well as snow accumulation of 1" - 2".  We strongly recommend that you follow the local meteorologist reports, NOAA weather radio or the Weather Channel to keep abreast of the most current weather patterns.

 

With the potential for heavy winds comes the increased threat of power outages ... long term outages due to the land mass that Sandy is going to impact.  Be ready for the inconvenience of power outages!!  If you rely on oxygen or other medical equipment, please contact your provider immediately if you need re-fills or information on how to operate the equipment when commercial power is not available.  Please be cautious of purchasing large amounts of perishable goods unless you have a generator or other system for keeping the goods fresh without power.  

 

Following are some tips for you in getting ready for this event as well as the winter season we are heading into.  Remember, the goal is to be prepared, not to panic.  You have time to get your family, your pets and your home ready for any potential severe weather ... take a few minutes to go over this guidance, talk to your family members and get ready Bridgeport.   

 

Winter Weather and Storm Preparedness Tips:

 

FLOODING:

If a flood is likely in your area, you should:

• Listen to the radio or television for information.

• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.

• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.

 

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.

• A foot of water will float many vehicles.

• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.

 

PREPARE YOUR HOME AND FAMILY:  WINTER WEATHER:

 

*Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

 

*Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.

 

*Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment. 

 

*Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.

 

*Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.

 

*Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions. 

 

*Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

 

*Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors or employees. 

 

*Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work.

 

PREPARE YOUR CAR

 

Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car: 

- Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing. 

- Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean. 

- Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels. 

- Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.

- Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas. 

- Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.

- Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability. 

- Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well. 

- Thermostat - ensure it works properly.

- Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level. 

- Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. - All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

- Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.

- Place a winter emergency kit in each car

 

Click HERE for a story on how the city is prepping for the worst case scenario.,