Mayor Galvin Offers Hurricane Preparation Tips

 As the first major hurricane of 2011 threatens the east coast and New England, city officials are coordinating efforts with state and federal officials to finalize their disaster response plan.

 “Forecasters are not exactly certain of Irene’s path,” according to Mayor Scott Galvin, but “it’s anticipated ( to produce) damaging winds and rainfall amounts of six to 12 inches along particularly the westerly side of the hurricane’s track.”

 Galvin offered these suggestions on how residents and businesses can prepare for the storm.

 Residents

 Make a family communication plan – “Know how your family will contact each other and where you will meet.”

 Stock some food and water – “a three-day food and water supply for each person in your home.  Remember individual diet needs and plan for your pets. Think in terms of one gallon of water per person per day.”

 Add to you First Aid kit – include “health products and prescription medicine.”

 Pack an evacuation kit – “Have supplies ready in your car or in a backpack in case you must leave your home.  Pack lightly and include basic supplies for 24 to 48 hours.”

 Think of your neighbors – “Encourage others to plan ahead and remember neighbors who need help.”

 Also – “Keep extra cash on hand. Use flashlights instead of candles, cell phones with chargers. Evacuate if advised by authorities. Fill you car’s gas tank. Turn off propane tanks. Unplug small appliances. Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (bicycles, lawn furniture).”

 Businesses

 “Review your property insurance with your insurance agent. Take photographs or make a video of you business establishment both inside and outside.

 “Protect corporate records, keeping duplicates in an alternative location.

 “Make plans (to protect) your computer files, including an offsite backup system.

 As the storm approaches, “remember to bring in display racks and other objects, such as trash cans, that might cause damage if airborne. Remove outdoor signs, especially those that swing or are portable.

 “Move merchandise, equipment or furniture away from windows or skylights. Elevate boxes or equipment, if possible.

 “Turn off electricity and disconnect all electrical appliances and equipment (except refrigeration equipment) in case of a power outage.

 “Inform all employees on when and how you will notify them to report back to work.”

 “For more information or a more comprehensive hurricane safety list,” Galvin recommends going to “www.redcross.org or calling 617-274-5200 (the American Red Cross of Eastern MA regional headquarters).”

 In case of emergency, as always, dial 911.