Sandy Hits Southern Tier: Things You Should Know

Illustration by National Weather Service

You ever get that feeling like, "oh my, here we go again?" The feeling that not whether or not the other shoe will drop, but when it will drop? Yea, me too!

I am of course talking about Hurricane Sandy. We have all lived through, mustered through and cried through the last two big storms that changed our lives. 2006, 2011 and now 2012? The forecasters are saying it won't be like last year, but aren't we a little gun shy? Or is it storm shy? Whatever it is, I do not like it at all.

The talking-head weather dudes and dude-etts say that Sandy will not be as bad as last year's Tropical Storm Lee. I hope she's not. But what if she is? What if she stalls out over the Twin Tiers again? What if the creeks rise and run through my neighbors kitchen again? What if another landslide happens to close I-88 again? What if.....

Here's what if! Be prepared!

• Make sure you have a three day water supply in your house. Bottle water in empty containers and stock your refrigerator and freezer.

• Have a three day supply of nonperishable foods, including  peanut butter, canned goods with easy off lids (cause there won't be any electricity to open them),
ready to eat meats and quick snacks, like energy bars.

• Prepare a first aid kit. Have all medicine, prescription and non-prescription, as well as medical supplies in one place. If you have to leave home, it is important these medicines are easily accessible to take with you.

• All homes should make sure they have working flashlights and battery operated radios with extra batteries.

• If you have generator, make sure it is not being used in the garage or house. Generators in the home can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

• A list of emergency contacts should be carried with you as well as other important documents. These include insurance information and bank information.

• Have some cash on hand in case ATM’s are not working.

• Make sure that children and relatives with special needs are getting the care that they need.

• If evacuation is ordered, please evacuate and report to shelters.

Here's another what if. If the Baklava hits the fan, I will be here to help again, just as I was last year. And all the people I work with here at 991 The Whale will be here to help you through it as well! That's our 'What If' promise to you!

Good luck and don't take any chances! Peace Out, Cub Scout!