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Community Corner

CVFR Shares Storm Safety Tips

With tropical storm Arthur brewing in the Atlantic, the 2014 hurricane season is officially underway. Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue offers some tried-and-true tips to help residents survive Arthur, Bertha, Cristobel, Dolly and the other possible hurricanes or tropical storms that could threaten Virginia this year.

“First of all, check your emergency supplies and gather items that would be needed if a power outage should last for several days,” said Kevin Dillard, Administrative Chief of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue. Some important items to include in a hurricane survival kit would include:

  • A supply of water equal to one gallon per person per day (minimum 3-day supply)
  • Some non-perishable food and a can opener
  • A first-aid kit
  • Baby and/or pet supplies
  • Blankets and batteries
  • Flashlights
  • Personal items and toilet paper
  • Medications 

When a hurricane watch is issued, here’s some advice to follow:

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  • Bring in or secure garbage cans, outdoor furniture, bikes, plants, etc.
  • Put some gas in the car
  • Store valuable papers in a waterproof/fireproof container
  • Charge up cell phones and have a battery-powered radio on hand
  • Check emergency supplies

During the storm, a few tips include:

  • Stay inside, away from windows, and preferably in the center of the house
  • If you lose power, turn off major appliances to prevent a power surge when it’s restored
  • Listen to the radio and watch TV broadcasts (if possible) for official instructions
  • Avoid opening the refrigerator door unless necessary to keep foods cold as long as possible

"The time for families to think about a weather crisis and preparedness plan is well before the event - not during a storm when the power may be out," said David Botkins, spokesman for Dominion Virginia Power. "A list of action items and key phone numbers can be posted inside a pantry or closet door, and a home preparedness kit with important items can be collected well in advance - and should be." Dominion provides frequent updates about storm activity on the company’s website, www.dom.com, Facebook page and on Twitter (@DomVaPower).

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“Being well-prepared for Mother Nature’s wild side brings considerable peace of mind,” concluded Dillard.

Some websites with helpful advice to weather a hurricane include www.hurricanetips.org, www.nhc.noaa.gov, and www.hurricaneville.com, among others. 

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