Hurricane Readiness

Are you Hurricane Ready?
hurricaneearl

Here is the link to the Mattapoisett's Emergency Management Program info for its residents.

Preparing for a Hurricane

If you are under a hurricane watch or warning, here are some basic steps to take to prepare for the storm:

  • Identify potential home hazards and know how to secure or protect them before the hurricane strikes. Be prepared to turn off electrical power when there is standing water, fallen power lines, or before your evacuate. Turn off gas and water supplies before you evacuate. 
  • Locate and secure your important papers, such as insurance policies, wills, licenses, stocks, etc.
  • Post emergency phone numbers at every phone.
  • Inform local Fire and Police Departments about any special needs ( i.e. elderly, bedridden people, or anyone with a disability).

Emergency Supplies

One way to prepare is by assembling a Disaster Supplies Kit. Once disaster hits, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. But if you've gathered supplies in advance, your family can endure an evacuation or home confinement.

  • Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
  • Food, at least a three day supply of non-perishable food.
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
  • Flashlight and extra batteries.
  • Whistle to signal for help.
  • Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
  • Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).
  • Local maps.
  • Cell phone with charger, inverter or solar charger.

Additional items to consider adding to a Disaster Supplies Kit:

  • Prescription medications and glasses.
  • Infant formula and diapers.
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet.
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
  • Cash or traveler's checks and change.
  • Emergency reference material such as a First Aid book.
  • Consider additional change of clothing.
  • Matches in a waterproof container.
  • Blankets or sleeping bags.
  • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

Preparing to Evacuate

Expect the need to evacuate and prepare for it. The National Weather Service will issue a hurricane watch when there is a threat to coastal areas of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.

When a hurricane watch is issued, you should:

  • Fill your automobile's gas tank.
  • If no vehicle is available, make arrangements with friends or family.
  • Review your emergency plans, checking supplies and your Disaster Supplies Kit.
  • Tune into the radio or television for weather updates.
  • Secure any items outdoors which my damage property in a storm, such as bicycles, grills, propane tanks, etc.
  • Cover windows and doors with plywood or boards, or place large strips of masking / adhesive tape on windows to reduce the risk of breakage and flying glass.
  • Adjust the thermostat on refrigerators and freezers to the coolest possible temperature and limit the amount of opening / closing of the doors.

If you are ordered to evacuate:

Because of the destructive power of a hurricane, you should never ignore an evacuation order.

  • Take only essential items with you.
  • If you have time, turn off the gas, electricity and water.
  • Disconnect appliances.
  • Make sure to bring your Disaster Supplies Kit.
  • Follow the designated evacuation routes-others may be blocked-and expect heavy traffic.

If you are ordered NOT to evacuate:

The great majority of injuries during a hurricane are cuts caused by flying glass or other debris. To get through the storm in  the safest possible manner:

  • Monitor the radio or television for weather conditions.
  • Stay indoors until the authorities declare the storm is over.
  • Do not go outside, even if the weather appears to have calmed-the calm "Eye" of the storm can quickly pass, leaving you outside when strong winds resume.
  • Stay away from windows and exterior doors, seeking shelter in bathroom or basement.
  • Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or to a neighbor's home if your home is damaged, or if you are instructed to do so by emergency personnel.

In light of the impending storm, the Mattapoisett Building Department recommends the following:

  • Remove and store all patio furniture, lawn chairs and barbecue grill indoors.
  • Store all construction lumber indoors.
  • If you have a porta-jon, have it removed.
  • If you have a dumpster, have it removed.

If you have any questions please contact the Building Department at 508-758-4100 x9.