It looks like we are going to get hit pretty hard by the fast-approaching Hurricane Irene. Weather folks are saying it could be the worst to hit the East Coast in 50 years.

We are not trying to scare anyone, but high winds, power outages and flooding are very possible, so it’s never a bad idea to be prepared for the storm, which is due to reach the Philly area on Sunday morning. The following information, including the hurricane preparedness list, was originally posted on the UCNeighbors listserv by neighbor Robin who kindly allowed us to re-publish it here. Thanks Robin!

“I grew up in Tidewater Va. Damage is unpredictable. We won’t have storm surge (which washes away homes on the coast) but I believe we will have some flooding as predicted. If your basement gets wet, or was wet in the last 5″-6” of rain I would buy a pump now and have it on hand.

The winds predicted will bring down trees and we have large ones and wet ground. So we will have electricity out somewhere. Some people will have damage to their roofs. I think it is smart to bring in trash cans, lawn furniture, potted plants etc., they will blow around. With our old roofs you might want the trash can in the house to catch water if you spring a leak.

I think it is also smart to make sure the weep holes in your storm windows are clear. The wind drives rain in at odd angles and water might come in places where you might not expect. Hurricanes can spark tornadoes, you should listen to a battery operated radio.

My prep list:

1. Batteries for a radio and flashlights.

2. Bring in backyard items

3. Non-perishable food. I am also cooking a dish or two and freezing them. If the power goes out I will let them thaw and heat them in a chaffing dish. I am going to buy a bag of ice before the storm to put in the freezer to extend the cooling time.

4. Some bottled water, you most likely won’t need it. Sometimes water treatment can
get overwhelmed and you need potable water. Sometimes flooding breaks water mains.

5. Charge your cell phones. Your laptops. Toothbrush:) etc.

6. Put gas in your car for emergencies.

7. Buy a sheet of plastic to protect the floor if there are leaks. Try to prevent
leaks before they happen.

8. Bring in pets.

Also, Robin adds, make sure you have enough medications in case you need them.