Long Island, NY - October 6, 2016 - Most of Long Island is sea level, placing our region in harms way any time a hurricane approaches. We all remember Superstorm Sandy, and many of us are still rebuilding. Recent weather reports are indicating that Hurricane Matthew and/or Tropical Storm Nicole may visit the region, and while the strength of these storms, should they reach us, cannot be forecasted at this time, it is better to be over prepared vs surprised.  

l served for many years as the Chairman of the Annual Long Island Hurricane Symposium, and I have a campaign plan to address the Hurricane Windstorm Deductibles on your homeowners insurance, but let's hope these storms just pass us.   

According to the National Hurricane Center, there are many steps that one can take to prepare for a hurricane, including:

• Determine safe evacuation routes inland before a storm strikes.
• Learn locations of official shelters.
• Make emergency plans for pets.
• Check emergency equipment, such as flashlights, generators, and battery- powered radios and cell phones.
• Stock up on batteries, food, first aid supplies, drinking water and medications
• Buy plywood and other materials to protect your home.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Trim trees and shrubbery.
• Review your insurance policy.
• Fuel and service your vehicles (including chainsaws.
• Inspect and secure mobile home tie-downs.
• Board up windows.
• Store lawn furniture and other loose, light-weight objects.
• Have cash on hand in case power goes out and ATM's do not work.
• Listen frequently to the radio, TV or NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radio during the storm..

During a hurricane, residents who live in mobile or manufactured homes, on a coastline, offshore island or near a river or flood plain, or who live in a high-rise should plan to evacuate immediately in the event of a hurricane. For more information on hurricanes, go to www.nhc.noaa.gov.

If you have pets, I suggest you contact The Nassau County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Wind Velocity/Storm Surge
Category 1 mph: 74-95   feet: 4-5
Category 2 mph: 96-110   feet: 6-8
Category 3 mph: 111-130  feet: 9-12
Category 4 mph: 131-155  feet: 13-18
Category 5 mph: Over 155  feet: Over 18