Preparing for the Storm

PREPARING FOR THE STORM

RECOGNIZING THE POTENTIAL RISKS:

-          There is a risk of extended power outages and even possibility of blocked roads

-          Blizzards and storms can be dangerous.

-          Being overly cautious can save lives

-          Important to remain informed and prepared and indoors

DO’s

-          Plan in advance

-          Stay indoors

-          Communication Plan:

• Have all important phone numbers written down on paper
• Have your neighbors number available ( they may need your help or can provide you help)
• Inform family about your whereabouts plans for the storm and blizzard

-          Make sure you have following items available and in working and usable condition

• Cell phone ready and charged. May have to consider using text messaging in case communication towers are compromised.
• Radio with batteries
• Candles and safe locations for candles
• Lighter and/or matches
• If you have a generator, make sure that you have gas.
• Gas in cars
• Stored gas for use.
• Snow blowers and shovels

-          Staying warm strategies

• Have warm clothes and a change available and in an accessible place. (may have to reach them in dark)
• Plenty of warm blankets
• Firewood
• Warm sleeping bags

-          Car Preparation

• Fill gas tank
• Sleeping bag
• Have warm blankets and clothes at all times (avoid travel)
• Have snacks and food in car
• Keep cell phone

-          Stock up some of these items:

• Batteries
• Flash lights
• Battery operated radio
• Bottled water
• Toilet paper
• Nonperishable foods
• Cereal or Crackers,
• Canned food
• Powdered Milk
• Protein Bars
• Non electric can opener
• Candles
• Wood for fireplaces
• Prescription medicines
• Over-the-counter common meds.
• Board Games or deck of card or books.
• Pet food
• If you have young infants or toddlers –
  • diapers,
  • baby wipes,
  • formula,
  • baby food

DON’T’s

-          Travelling is not a good idea

-          Do not use generators indoor or in garages

-          Do not use candles close to flammable materials and curtains

-          If stranded in car:

• If the exhaust of car is blocked by snow, it can cause Carbon Monoxide to build up in car so make sure that one of the windows is partially or slightly open
• Do not use up all the gas in the car so that you are not able to drive back to the road.

In the event that this storm becomes a significant emergency, the town of South Windsor will place updates on their website and Facebook. It is possible that that many may have trouble getting the information. Please note that the South Windsor High School (161 Nevers Road) is the towns’ primary emergency shelter. The decision about the opening of the shelter will be made based on the needs and situation.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS AND ADDRESSES:
South Windsor Police Department
151 Sand Hill Road, South Windsor, CT  06074
(860) 644-2551

Town Hall: 1540 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT 06074
860 644 2511

South Windsor Department of Human Services
860 648 6361

South Windsor High School
161 Nevers Road, South Windsor, CT 06074

Tyler Regional Animal Control Shelter
124 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT 06074