While Long Island is blessed with beautiful coastal waters, beaches and natural beauty, we do remain exposed to the unpredictable forces of nature – potentially endangering our loved ones and homes. No one can prevent natural disasters but we can take the necessary steps to protect our families and ourselves. Knowing how to respond to natural disasters, including hurricanes, floods, snowstorms and fires, can prevent injuries and minimize property damage.

Please take a moment to read this brochure, which includes important information that can help you and your family prepare in case of a natural disaster, as well as what to do during and after the emergency.

By familiarizing yourself with these basic safety steps, you and your family will be better prepared during emergency situations until help arrives. I hope that you never have to use this information, but you will have peace of mind knowing you are prepared.

Some may think our region is safe from nature’s fury, but Long Island has been struck quite a few times by hurricanes in the past, including Hurricane Gloria in 1985.

Prepare for a hurricane

• Assemble an emergency supply kit.

• Be familiar with hurricane terms.

• Secure property and possessions.

• Fill vehicles with gas.

Plan to evacuate

• Organize travel routes and destinations.

• Establish sites where family members would meet if they become separated.

• Be familiar with alternate routes.

• Carry an emergency supply kit.

• Bring along pets.

Stay informed

• Listen to or watch local news for storm updates.

• Do not return home until local authorities say it is safe.