Here's what you should do to prepare if a hurricane hits RI
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Stay informed about the most recent storm forecasts and developments, stock up on food and fill prescriptions, know where to go if you have to evacuate.
These are some of the steps experts say people should take in Rhode Island in advance of a major storm like a hurricane.
Hurricane Lee, a Category 3 storm, was in the Caribbean as of Tuesday morning and expected to move north through the Atlantic Ocean. It's difficult to determine what, if any, impact it will have on Southern New England aside from building up the surf, but experts say it's never too early to prepare for a hurricane.
Hurricane Lee tracker: Rhode Island encouraged to monitor path of Category 3 storm
"When a storm is forecast to impact your area, take action immediately to be ready," the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says on its website. "Ideally, longer-term preparedness actions such as having disaster supplies and an evacuation plan will have already been done before hurricane season, when the stores are stocked and time is on your side. When a storm threatens, there’s a lot more to do."
Go beyond Rhode Island staples of bread and milk. Have a kit to survive a hurricane
It's important to stock up on "essential resources," such as food, bottled water and cash, according to Armand Randolph, public information officer for the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency.
Since power may go out, non-perishable food items can be key to getting through the storm and beyond, according to Randolph. Cash can come in handy if ATMs aren't available.
More: 12 essentials to have at the ready for hurricane season
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security advises keeping such items in a waterproof kit that should including flashlights, a battery-powered radio, batteries and first aid kid, among other things.
It's also a good idea to charge cell phones and take steps to preserve their power, so you can check in with friends, relatives and others, Randolph said. For example, Randolph and his son check in during emergencies by contacting each other via cell phone every half hour, he said. Otherwise, they keep the phones turned off, he said.
One gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation
Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
Battery powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA All-Hazards weather radio – include extra batteries for each
Flashlights or lamps with extra batteries
First aid kit
Extra glasses and any medicines
A whistle to signal for help
A wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation
Local maps
Have plan to stay in contact with family and evacuate your neighborhood
In the worst cases, residents might have to evacuate their homes. Emergency officials say it's important to have a plan. "If a hurricane were to come, could you evacuate if you had to?" Randolph said.
The National Weather Service gives the following advice: "Before an emergency happens, sit down with your family or close friends and decide how you will get in contact with each other, where you will go, and what you will do in an emergency. Keep a copy of this plan in your emergency supplies kit or another safe place where you can access it in the event of a disaster."
Maybe it's best to get out early and plan on staying with friends or relatives in a less vulnerable location. The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency has evacuation maps on its website. The evacuation maps lead residents to higher ground, not necessarily shelter, Randolph noted.
However, when necessary, the state, cities and towns will announce the opening of shelters. That's among the reasons experts say its important to keep abreast of forecasts and messages from public safety officials.
The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency and other public safety agencies will update the public on safety threats, precautions and resources via social media, press releases and press conferences, Randolph noted.
Stay informed by trusted sources
The National Weather Service stresses the importance of relying on trusted sources for storm information. "Be cautious of sensational headlines and instead look for reliable sources to determine a storm's potential impacts," the weather service says.
Detailed local forecast information is available on the National Weather Service's website. The weather service urges people to do their research and understand what the information means. See this page on NOAA's website for help in understanding forecast information.
"Use the official National Hurricane Center Forecast – their hurricane specialists access a variety of data (models, aircraft, satellite) to make the most accurate forecasts possible," the weather service says. "Meteorologists at local NWS offices understand which locations in your area are most vulnerable to storm surge, flooding, and wind."
"Always check to make sure you have the latest forecast information," the weather service says. "Make sure to have Wireless Emergency Alerts enabled on your phone to receive Warnings."
How to prepare your home for a hurricane, flooding
Before a storm it's also a good idea to secure items in the yard, and perhaps board up windows and doors, according to the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes.
"An unsecured accessory structure can be loosened, lifted, and moved by high winds during hurricanes, severe storms, or tornadoes, causing damage and creating dangerous conditions," the organization says.
It also notes, "If your home is not protected by impact-resistant windows and doors, wind- or impact-resistant garage doors, or tested and approved shutters, you can build temporary emergency panels to protect your home in a hurricane."
Detailed information on securing yard structures such as sheds and building temporary emergency panels is available on the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes website.
Flooding causes 90% of property damage in disasters, and residents might consider installing barriers such as sandbags, floodgates or walls to keep water out, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes says. It might also make sense to move appliances and other expensive household items higher.
Renters should consider insurance and check their lease
Experts also recommend reviewing insurance policies. "If renters are able to get renters insurance, that's not a bad idea," Randolph said.
Renters should also consider reviewing their leases, Randolph noted. They might want to know who is responsible for replacing lost food if the power goes out for an extended period. And what if the storm renders the rental uninhabitable?
Finally, Randolph says make sure to included pets in any evacuation plan and to check on vulnerable friends and relatives.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Hurricane headed for RI? Follow this checklist to stay safe
