As we watch the devastation that has occurred in Texas due to Hurricane Harvey, it is important to make sure our own hurricane preparations are in place. Now through October tends to be our most active part of the Hurricane Season, as seen with Tropical Storm Irma that became a named storm yesterday. The first step in preparation is to know how to prepare.
Ready Hampton Roads is a one-stop information center for all of the localities in the area. There you can find information about making an emergency kit, making a plan and staying informed as well as local emergency information.
Know your Zone! This year, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management released new evacuation zones for Coastal Virginia. The new evacuation zones are designated A through D, and evacuations and emergency information will be given according to the zone that is affected. There is not a defined set of directions according to the zone in which you live. The information that is given out is based on the emergency or weather event and may change every time with every occurrence.
Be prepared! Make a plan, stock up, listen to the alerts and be ready to be self-sustaining for at least three days. This
emergency kit should include at the minimum, enough of these essential items to last each person at least three days.
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Food that does not need electricity for storage or for preparation
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Manual can opener for food
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At least three gallons of water per person per day
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Battery-powered/hand-crank radio with weather band and extra batteries
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Written family emergency plan