Is Your Tarrytown Family Prepared for Irene?

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. -- Hurricane Irene threatens to bring heavy winds and flooding to Tarrytown and Irvington. Are you prepared for a possible emergency?

Here are some tips for before, during and after the storm:

• Hold a family meeting to discuss the hazards of hurricanes and determine the need to evacuate or relocate. Homes close to the water may need to be prepared to relocate before a storm’s arrival.

• Review insurance policies and secure important papers and valuables.

• Check the roof, windows, doors and landscaping and take precautions, such as removing weak branches from trees, checking shingles, tile panels and gutters and securing when necessary. Close all windows and securely fasten shutters.

• Accommodate all pets if you must evacuate. Space will be limited in pet-sheltering facilities.

• Gather supplies, including food, water and medications, and prepare a hurricane survival kit.

• Choose a safe room — an interior room with no windows — if you need immediate protection.

• Let family, friends and caregivers know about your plans and assemble a list of important phone numbers and contacts.

• Prepare a water supply and maintain essential needs by prefilling sinks and tubs with water, filling one gallon containers for drinking purposes, setting your refrigerator/freezer on its coldest setting and getting cash, filling gas tanks and charging cell phones.

How are you preparing for Hurricane Irene? Tell us in the comments below or on our Facebook page.

Click here to follow Daily Voice Tarrytown-SleepyHollow and receive free news updates.