Prepare for Hurricane Irene Before It Strikes Northern Virginia

The following is an excerpt from a prepared statement by Kim Hylander with the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue.

"Planning ahead is the key in increasing one’s chances of survival during an emergency.  By following a few simple and low-cost steps you can prepare and protect your family, business, neighborhood and community when emergencies and disasters arise.

Before the storm hits:

• Check emergency equipment and supplies.
• Have non-perishable food and drinking water on hand for family and pets.
• Clear loose or clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Trim trees and shrubbery to remove dead limbs.
• Fuel your vehicles.
• Secure outside furniture and store items like trash cans that might be blown by heavy winds.
• Move important items to a higher level if your home is prone to flooding.

During the storm:

• Monitor your NOAA weather radio or local media outlets for storm updates.
• Follow instructions from local officials.
  • Register on the County’s emergency notification system – PWCAN – to receive emergency information from County officials. Registration is easy and it’s free. Go to www.pwcgov.org/pwcan to register.
• Leave immediately if instructed to do so.
• Stay away from windows.

After the storm:

• Continue to listen to your NOAA weather radio or local media outlets for updates.
• Check home for damages.
• Watch for downed power lines.
• If you come to a flooded road, turn around and look for another route.

To learn more on how to protect you and your loved ones during an emergency, visit www.pwcgov.org/emergency,  www.ReadyVirginia.gov and www.ready.gov."

Be sure to read our other tips on .

Stay tuned for Keri's noon column, in which she offers tips for creating a family emergency plan.