THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, August 16, 1995 TAG: 9508160410
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B4 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: Compiled by Cindy Clayton
LENGTH: Long : 133 lines
BEFORE THE STORM:
What should I do as the hurricane approaches?
Listen to radio and television constantly.
Prepare for high winds by bracing your garage door. That's
usually the weakest part of a house. Pull your car into the garage
and back it up against the door. That will add lots of support.
Also, lower antennas and anchor all outside objects.
Board, shutter or tape windows. Tape won't keep glass from
shattering but it helps prevent injury from broken glass.
Move boats on trailers close to your house. Fill boats with water
to weigh them down, and lash them securely to trailer or tie-downs.
Remove boats from water or check moorings.
Safeguard valuable papers by putting them in waterproof
containers. Store them in the highest possible place or take them
with you if you evacuate.
Photograph valuable items in your house or make a list. That will
give you a record should you have property damage and need to file
an insurance claim.
Fill air-tight containers with drinking water: 2 gallons per
person per day and 2 gallons for cooking. Stock more water in your
bathtub, washing machine and other containers for bathing, toilet
flushing and first aid.
Fill at least one vehicle with gasoline in advance, should you be
forced to evacuate.
If you must leave, tell family members and friends. That will
keep them from worrying and will make you easier to find.
Have flashlights handy - and plenty of batteries, too.
Get cash. Banks may close and ATM machines may be without power.
If I live in a mobile home, should I evacuate?
Yes. Mobile homes aren't on permanent foundations, so they are
vulnerable to strong winds. Before you leave, make sure you have
supplies. Make arrangements for pets, secure all loose items outside
and check tie-downs.
What should I do with my pets?
Never leave your pet outside during a storm. Make sure your pet
has securely fastened identification tags on its collar with your
name, address and phone number.
If you remain at home, make sure you have adequate food and water
for all pets.
Takes pets with you if you leave. However, pets are not allowed
in Red Cross shelters. If you live in Virginia Beach, pets with
proper identification can be dropped at the SPCA. If you live in any
other city, call your local shelter or Animal Control Bureau.
If you leave your pet at home alone, place the animal in a room
on an inside wall. And leave enough food and water for several days.
ONCE THE STORM HITS:
What should I do if I'm at home?
The safest place to be is in a center hallway or bathroom. Stay
away from exterior walls and doors. Should the winds become violent,
lie down in a bathtub and cover up with a bed mattress.
Should I walk around?
Many people are injured after major disasters because they are
not aware of the potential for injury from fallen debris. If you
must walk outside, be careful of exposed nails and broken glass.
Make sure children are especially cautious.
When should I call 911?
Do not call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency.
Rescue workers will be busy helping those who have storm-related
injuries.
Where can I get emergency supplies and aid?
Contact the Red Cross for the location of the nearest service
center. The Red Cross provides food, clothing, help in finding
temporary housing, some furnishings and occupational supplies.
Can I still use my cellular phone?
Yes. Make sure the battery for your phone is charged in case you
lose power. If it's a nickel-cadmium battery and you have time, try
to drain the battery first by leaving the phone on, then charge it.
The battery will last longer. Keep the phone in a dry place. Use
your cellular phone for emergencies only. Be prepared for delays in
completing cellular calls.
What should I do if my car is flooded?
Do not attempt to start or drive your car until it has dried out.
What about driving?
Avoid flooded roadways. Water can hide debris that can damage
your car. You can also stall if water gets into the engine. Wet
brakes can also be dangerous.
What should I do if my power goes out?
If the storm hits and causes widespread damage, crews will be
sent throughout the area. The amount of damage to an area will
determine how quickly power can be restored. Do not call the power
company unless there is an emergency.
Don't use a portable generator unless you've installed a bypass
switch to keep power from backfeeding into the power system. Without
such a precaution your generator may energize a downed power line.
What should I do if I see fallen power lines?
Don't touch them. Fallen lines may still be live. Report them to
your local power company, and be specific.
Is there any danger from broken gas lines?
If you smell gas or have any reason to believe a line may be
broken, turn off the gas lines immediately. Call your local gas
utility.
What should I do if I see raw sewage?
Raw sewage is a sign that a septic tank has failed or a sewer is
backed up. Call the local health department to report the problem.
Can I eat food from my refrigerator if the power has been out?
If the power has gone out, do not open the refrigerator unless
you have to. The freezer will keep food from spoiling for two days.
Use a cooler chest packed with ice for items you want to access
immediately. Once the freezer starts thawing, cook foods that can
contaminate easily.
Should I drink tap water?
Listen to radio and other reports from local officials. In most
cases, residents who get city water can drink it without concern.
People who get water from private wells should boil it for three to
five minutes to kill bacteria.
What do I do if I have damage to my home and property?
Photograph valuable items for insurance purposes. Contact your
insurance agent as soon as you can after the storm and ask for
instructions on what to do until your adjuster arrives. Be sure to
follow the company's instructions when making a claim.
Will my company pay for temporary shelter if I can't return
home?
Some insurance companies will reimburse you for the rental cost
of temporary shelter if you have a homeowners policy. Check with
your agent and keep your receipts.
KEYWORDS: HURRICANE FELIX by CNB