Mount Sinai, NY - January 21, 2016 - Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker urges residents to be prepared for the winter snow storm anticipated to hit Long Island as early as Friday, January 22nd, 2016. Residents can be assured that Suffolk County is well prepared for the severe weather with 163 pieces of snow removal equipment and 20,000 tons of salt. The Department of Public Works is in a strong position to clear county roadways and ensure the safety of all residents.
The Suffolk County Office of Emergency Management, PSEG Long Island and the National Weather Service have recommended the following in order to be prepared for severe snow fall:
- Buy salt and shovels in preparation for clearing your driveway and sidewalks.
- Make sure you have sufficient home heating fuel.
- Fill your car with gas.
- Make sure you have cash. ATMs don’t work if there is a power outage!
- Check batteries in flashlights, radios and other devices you will need.
- Put together an emergency supplies kit: Have enough food, water, medication and other supplies to last for at least three days.
- Wear a hat, gloves and scarf to protect yourself from extreme cold when outside.
- Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are operational. Unvented or malfunctioning space heaters may cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
- Check in on relatives who are elderly or sick.
- Tune in to local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm information.
- Follow all instructions issued by local officials.
- During a power outage, to prevent a sudden electric surge when the power comes back on, turn off major appliances such as refrigerators and TVs.
- Listen to the radio or TV for important safety updates.
- Watch for closed roads. Do not attempt to drive through a closed road.
- Assume downed power lines are live wires and stay as far away from them as possible.
- Report outages and downed power lines to PSEG: Call 800-490-0075; text “OUT” to PSEGLI (773454); or report online.
- Don’t walk in areas with downed power lines.
- In case of emergency, dial 911. For police-related, non-emergencies: (631) 852-COPS.
- Suffolk County Office of Emergency Management: (631) 852-4900.
For more information, please contact the office of Legislator Anker at (631) 854-1600.