Tropical Storm Henri: Town Of Oyster Bay Urges Residents To Prep

OYSTER BAY, NY — Town of Oyster Bay officials are urging residents to prepare now in case Tropical Storm Henri heads more toward Long Island.

This is the first time in 10 years that the National Weather Service has issued a hurricane watch for portions of the tri-state area since Hurricane Irene in August 2011. (Superstorm Sandy in 2012 wasn't a hurricane at landfall, but devastated parts of Long Island).

"Superstorm Sandy taught us that given our location as an island, we are vulnerable to the Atlantic Ocean and susceptible to the powerful and destructive nature of hurricanes," said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. "With Tropical Storm Henri already staring in our direction, it is critical that residents be prepared and take all storm and hurricane warnings seriously. Don't take any chances and make sure your Emergency Go-Kit and Family & Friends Sheltering Plan are in place and ready should officials determine your neighborhood must evacuate."

The National Weather Service says heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding.

Rainfall estimates vary widely depending on how the storm tracks. There is the potential of two to four inches of rain from Saturday through Monday on the Island with the bulk of it falling Sunday.

Assembling Emergency Kits

Town of Oyster Bay residents are encouraged to assemble an Emergency Go-Kit, keep it by their front door in a duffel bag, and include enough supplies for everyone in the household for five days, including:

• A first aid kit (pack a how-to guide and masks as well)
• Essential prescription and nonprescription items and medical information
• Battery-powered flashlight and radio (or crank radio), extra batteries, and a 12-hour glow stick
• A change of clothes, plus rainwear, sturdy shoes, and protective gloves for everyone
• Personal items, eyeglasses, and personal care items.
• Important documents in a waterproof container: drivers' licenses, wills, birth/marriage certificates, insurance policies, deed or lease papers, recent tax returns, credit card, and bank account numbers, Social Security cards, Passport, and home inventory list.
• Special items for infants, elderly persons, pets, or loved ones with special needs

Residents can also safeguard their pets by preparing a Pet Go-Kit, which officials say should include:

• Your pets' names, your address, and your phone number
• Your name, address, phone, and cell number
• Emergency contact (friend or family)
• Your veterinarian's name and contact info
• Important documents
• Medical records
• Medications with specific care instructions and behavioral problems
• First Aid kit
• Current photos
• Sturdy leash, collar or harness, muzzles
• Paper towels for clean-up
• Food and bottled water (three-day supply)
• Manual can opener and bowls
• Water purification tablets
• Toys and other comfort items
• Treats, brushes, and combs
• Newspapers and plastic bags

Residents are also encouraged to develop a Family & Friends Sheltering Plan in the event they are asked to evacuate their home. If you are advised to evacuate, here's what officials say you should do:

• A Family & Friends Sheltering Plan is recommended for anyone who resides in south of Sunrise Highway or in low-lying areas north of Route 25A
• Contact a friend or family member that lives outside the zone and make arrangements as this provides the most comfortable way to weather a severe storm
• Bring your Emergency Go-Kit
• Turn off all utilities
• Take your most reliable vehicle and avoid taking multiple vehicles that create gridlock

Possibility of Power Outages

Heavy rain and wind may result in downed trees and power outages. To report downed trees or stranded cars, call public safety at 516-677-5350.

Generators should never be run inside the home or garage due to the dangers of carbon monoxide.

To report a power outage or electrical emergency, residents may contact PSEG Long Island at 1-800-490-0075.

SEE ALSO:

• Henri Threatens Long Island: Hurricane Watch In Effect
• PSEGLI Anticipates Henri Could Cause Outages For Up to 10 Days