Because ofthe possibility of Hurricane Gustav threateningthe New Orleans area, the Bayou Chapter has decided to not send out the usual bi-weekly Bayou Briefs. Instead, we wanted to share some important numbers and website with you:
- Weather Channel: www.weather.com has updated tracking of the storm on-line
- State Police Road Closures 800-469-4828
- American Red Cross 800-229-8191 or www.redcross.org
- Salvation Army: www.us.salvationarmy.org
Checklist for approaching storm:
- Listen for weather updates on TV and radio
- Check your disaster supplies like food, water, batteries, generators, flashlights, non-cordless telephone, storm radio, etc.
- Refill prescriptions so that you have at least a month’s supply on hand
- Check your vehicle to ensure that all the fluid levels are where they should be and that your tires are properly inflated
- Obtain sufficient cash several days ahead of the storm as ATMs may run out of cash
Checklist if you don’t evacuate:
- Protect windows and doors by boarding up all access points
- Clean and fill containers with water
- When the storm is in the area, turn off all sources of outside air including closing windows, doors and vents
- During a storm, stay inside until officials say it is ok to leave building
Checklist if you evacuate:
- Plan your destination, where you will stay and alternate routes as main interstates may be clogged and smaller highways may be quicker
- Have enough food and water with you for three days
- Bring blankets
- Have cash, ATM and/or credit cards with you
Checklist for return:
- Listen to local radio stations before venturing home so that you have the
- Don’t return until you are officially told you may do so by area leaders
- Bring food, water and gas back with you incase there is a shortage or stores closed when you return
- Once home, avoid driving or using the telephone unless necessary because phone lines and streets may be being used by medical/emergency personnel
- If damage occurs, photo all damage and for safety reasons, make minor repairs