The City of New Rochelle is preparing for Hurricane Sandy, predicted to affect our area early next week. While the direct path and intensity of the storm is yet to be determined, heavy rains and high tides may result in significant flooding and high winds could knock out electricity.

Residents are urged to prepare now. In advance of and during the storm, the City will issue updates to local media and through the following communications channels:
Internet: The City’s website www.newrochelleny.com will have the latest News Flash and Emergency Alerts, as well as our Facebook page and Twitter feed
TV Bulletin: NRTV Cable Channel 75 and FIOS Channel 28
Citywide Emergency calls will be made as necessary. NOTE: Residents can subscribe to receive these emergency alerts directly through the City’s website at www.newrochelleny.com.

As with any disaster or emergency, residents are encouraged to Get a Kit and Make a Plan. Make a kit – specifically, a go-bag for use in an evacuation and a household disaster kit to enable a family to survive at home for several days without electricity. Have a plan – A family emergency plan should include deciding where to go in the event you have to leave your home. Don't forget to make plans for your pets as well. A complete list of action steps can be found on the City of New Rochelle website www.newrochelleny.com/emergencyprep ; www.westchestergov.com and www.ready.gov.

To prepare specifically for a tropical storm or hurricane:
•Frequently monitor TV, radio and the web for official bulletins on the progress of the storm
•Fuel and service family vehicles. Service stations may be unable to pump fuel because of flooding or loss of electrical service.
•Moor small craft or move to safe shelter.
•Check on supplies, including flashlights and batteries; a three-day supply of water and non-perishable foods; first aid and medications; and an extra supply of cash.
•Consider the special needs of young children, disabled or elderly family members.
•Secure or bring inside lawn furniture and other loose, lightweight objects, such as garbage cans and garden tools
•Homeowners with active building permits should make sure all materials secured or stored indoors. Roofing projects should secure all loose materials and scaffolding should be lowered or removed. Soil erosion control measures should also be maintained.
•Print out a list of important phone numbers and insure the safety of important documents.
•Should a power outage occur, contact Con Edison at 1-800-75-CONED. To report downed trees, call the Department of Public Works/Streets and Highways 235-4029. To report sewer backups call DPW/Sewers and Drains at 235-3567.