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Prepare now for Hurricane Irene

  • Published
  • Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  Hurricane Irene is on her way and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is getting ready. The aircraft is on its way out and FEMA is on its way in. The surrounding JB MDL community should begin preparing too. JB MDL Emergency Management has some tips and procedures to keep in mind to prepare for this and other hurricanes.

The base is not going to evacuate and urges everyone to remain calm and shelter in place. However, as the storm approaches, there are some things everyone needs to think about to ride out the storm.

"Secure outdoor objects so they are not blown away or uprooted such as garbage cans, garden tools, toys and lawn furniture," said Steve Robertson, JB MDL Emergency Manager. "It's important to anchor or store them inside before the storm strikes because hurricane force winds can make these objects dangerous."

Households should get a safety kit together and ensure it includes a seven day supply of non-perishable food and water, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's preparedness website Ready.gov. This equates to one to two gallons of water per person, per day for drinking and sanitation. Freezers and refrigerators should be set to their coldest settings; in the event of a short-term power outage this will prevent perishables from spoiling. Canned food is always a good idea for emergencies, but don't forget to have a non-electric can opener. For a complete list of supplies for a basic emergency supply kit visit Ready.gov.

Make sure to have a battery-powered radio and flashlight and plenty of fresh batteries. Monitor the storm by listening to local news, 1650 AM, JB MDL social networking sites and by calling (609) 754-BASE for McGuire and Dix, and (732) 323-7669 for Lakehurst.

Additionally, homes should be secure and cars should have full gas tanks. Gather important documents in waterproof containers, bedding, clothing, sturdy shoes and cash. Also think about any special needs items such as essential medications, extra eye glasses, and infant and elderly care items.

Continue to follow the instructions from Emergency Management, police and fire department officials before and throughout the storm.

"Once joint base leadership gives the clear, we will distribute information through 1650 AM, JB MDL social networking sites and the joint base info lines," said Robertson. "When returning to the area, carefully assess damage and stay away from downed power lines."

Damage should be reported to civil engineering at 754-2388 or the command post at 754-3935.

Call JB MDL Emergency Management at 754-3055 or the JB MDL Public Affairs Office at 754-2104 to address any other questions and concerns. For all emergencies call 911.