Charleston, WV (Press Release) - West Virginians, according to the weather forecasts, are on track for rain from the remnants of Hurricane Isaac, the Federal Emergency Management Agency warned today. That means West Virginians should prepare themselves and their property, minimize future storm damage and possibly save lives.
Houses damaged in this summer's derecho windstorm may be more vulnerable to future storms and rain. The basic steps to get ready are pretty straightforward:
1. Prepare your property in every way you can to withstand the storm.
2. Build an emergency kit to carry you through at least three days without outside help
3. Make a family communication plan so you can join up during or after the storm
Detailed instructions for all these preparations are available online at
www.ready.gov and
at
www.DisasterAssistance.gov. In addition, West Virginians can contact their county emergency managers for other information.
For a family emergency plan, you should prepare a card for each member of the family including:
- The school and work locations for each family member
- A neighborhood meeting place
- A regional meeting place
- An out of town contact name, e-mail, telephone number
- The names, birthdates, social security numbers, and medical information for each family member
- The names of doctors, druggists, insurance agents, medical insurance plan, and veterinarians
An emergency kit should include supplies for at least three days:
- One gallon of water per person per day
- Non-perishable food
- Manual can opener
- First aid kit
- Battery powered or hand crank radio, NOAA Weather radio, spare batteries
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Baby supplies for infants
- Whistle
- Towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities if necessary
- Tool kit or multi-purpose tool
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place
- Dust mask or cotton t-shirt to filter air
- Extra clothing
Several actions can help protect your house:
- Close the windows and cover them. Storm shutters are best - or board up windows with marine plywood, pre-cut to fit and ready to install. (Tape will not protect windows)
- If there is time, install straps or clips to secure the roof to the frame structure and reduce roof damage
- Trim trees and shrubs to make them more wind resistant
- Clean rain gutters and downspouts
- Reinforce garage doors and lock them
- Bring in or secure all outdoor furniture, garbage cans and anything not tied down
- Secure your boat
For the long term, consider building a safe room in your house and installing a generator for emergencies. Both will serve well for a wide range of emergencies.
For additional help or information about disaster aid, residents can call 2 1 1. Residents can also call Voluntary Agencies Active in Disasters (VOAD) at 304-343-9922, or get in touch with their county emergency manager for assistance in repairing damage. VOAD and the counties have cooperated since the beginning of the disaster to help survivors throughout the state.
