For Immediate Release

Friday, June 1, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Wenham Police Department Provides Tips for Start of Hurricane Season

WENHAM — With today marking the beginning of the 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season, Chief Thomas Perkins and the Wenham Police Department would like to share several important safety and preparedness tips with residents.

Although the official hurricane season begins June 1, historically, most tropical storms that have impacted New England have occurred during August and September. Powerful storms can result in devastating impacts, including storm surges, heavy rainfall, flooding and destructive winds.

“Residents need to prepare now, so they aren’t caught of guard when severe weather hits,” Chief Perkins said. “Make sure your family has a plan in place and always say informed about any hurricane or tropical storms warnings.”

In the event of a hurricane, tropical storm or severe weather, Chief Perkins and the Wenham Police Department urge residents to establish and practice a family emergency plan, build an emergency kit and follow these tips outlined by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency:

• Stay informed of hurricane and tropical storm warnings by receiving alerts and public safety information before, during and after emergencies.
• If you live or work in a flood zone, hurricane evacuation zone, or an area that is prone to flooding, you should be prepared to evacuate.
• Check flashlights and portable radios to confirm they’re working.
• Fully charge your cell phone, laptop and any other devices before the storm.
• If you own a car, make sure its gas tank is at least half full in the event you need to travel. Purchase a car phone charger so that you can charge your device if you lose power in your home.
• If you have life-support devices (home dialysis, suction, breathing machines, etc.) that depend on electricity, contact your local electric company about your power needs in advance of an emergency. Some utility companies will put you on a priority re-connection service list.
• Purchase a generator to maintain electricity despite an outage. Generators should always be kept outside, since they admit carbon monoxide fumes that can quickly accumulate indoors.
• Prepare your home. Consider attaching temporary plywood covers to protect windows and sliding doors.

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