Tips on preparing for East Coast superstorm

The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers tips on how to prepare for Hurricane Sandy and other tropical storms. Sandy is expected to be especially disastrous when it merges with a winter storm system, bringing powerful winds, rain, snow and storm surge along the Eastern Seaboard.

Before the hurricane:

— Know your surroundings and whether your home is in a flood prone area. Determine where you would go — and how you would get there — if you were ordered to evacuate

— Cover your home’s windows, either with permanent storm shutters or marine plywood at least 5/8 of an inch thick

— Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well-trimmed

— Clear clogged rain gutters

— Secure all outdoor furniture, decorations, trash cans and anything else that could blow away.

— Install a generator for emergencies

During:

— Listen to the radio or TV for information

— Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors

— Turn off propane tanks

— Avoid using the phone except for serious emergencies

— Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water

— Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors

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