Providence, RI – Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and Jamia McDonald, the Director of the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA), today are asking Rhode Island residents to start preparing for the 2014 Atlantic Hurricane season, which officially begins Sunday (June 1). Peak hurricane season lasts between mid-August and late October, and officially ends in November.
"With three-to-six hurricanes being projected as affecting the Atlantic Coast this year, every effort should be taken to be ready for severe weather," Governor Chafee said. "Just as a reminder, Hurricane Sandy created widespread devastation and adversely affected approximately 300,000 residents throughout the State."
"As we enter hurricane season, we strongly encourage all Rhode Islanders to discuss emergency preparedness with their friends, family and loved ones," RIEMA's Director McDonald said. "Personal preparedness begins with a supply kit and a plan. Remember to stay informed."
In the midst of an emergency, Governor Chafee and RIEMA are reminding residents that they will probably not have the time to shop or search for necessary items. When assembling a disaster-supply kit, it should include the basics for household members. A disaster-supply kit should include the following:
- Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
- Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable items and a manual can opener)
- Infant needs (formula, diapers, wipes) and pet care needs
- Special needs items (walker, cane, glasses, oxygen, incontinence supplies, durable medical supplies)
- Prescriptions and medications
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
- Cell phone with inverter or solar chargers - First aid supplies
- Clothing
- Sanitation supplies (toilet paper, soap/liquid detergent, feminine supplies, sanitary wipes)
- Toiletries/personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer)
- Tools to turn off utilities
- Keys for house and car
- Toys, books, or games
- Important documents, including health insurance information
- Cash (banks and ATMs may be unavailable)
- Bedding (blankets, pillows, sleeping bags)
In addition to supplies, the Governor and RIEMA are emphasizing that accurate information and knowledge are essential before, during and after an emergency or disaster. Plans in particular can help ensure you keep in contact with important family members, friends and especially elderly neighbors. The following are emergency plan recommendations:
- Create and practice a family communications in case you are separated during an emergency.
- Select a family meeting spot where everyone can go in case you are separated.
- Make sure all family members have an emergency contact list. (The contact list should include a friend or family member that lives out of state. It may be easier to make a non-local call after an emergency.)
- Identify potential hazards in your own community and learn about when they can happen.
- Learn where your city or town's shelter is located and how to get there. Make sure to ask officials about your city or town's emergency plan.