For Immediate Release

Thursday, July 21, 2016

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

Wenham Police Provide Safety Tips for Hurricane Season

WENHAM — As part of Hurricane Preparedness Week, Chief Thomas Perkins and the Wenham Police Department are asking that residents take the time to prepare themselves in the event of severe weather.

July 17-23 has been proclaimed Hurricane Preparedness Week by Governor Charlie Baker. While Atlantic Hurricane Season began June 1, historically, most tropical storms that have impacted New England have occurred during August and September.

Hurricanes or tropical storms can cause a multitude of problems like power outages, fallen debris and floods that often block roads and repair vehicles, prolonging damage.

“Our main concern is the safety of our residents,” Chief Perkins said. “Due to the fact that New England weather can be so temperamental, we encourage everyone to be cautious and prepared for extreme weather that could happen at a moment’s notice over the next few months.”

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

• Be 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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