North Central District Health Department

Serving the towns of: Enfield, Ellington, East Windsor, Windsor Locks, Suffield, Vernon, Windham, and Stafford
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Disaster Readiness

While the northeast is not prone to constant hurricanes or the threat of earthquakes, this part of the country has seen its share of natural disasters. Whether the emergency is natural or manmade, it is prudent for a community to be prepared. The Department of Homeland Security has put together a list of suggestions for building your own Emergency Supply Kit. Click on the link to see what's recommended.

Winter Weather

At some point during the winter residents of this district may be faced with severe winter weather. Weather can include freezing rain, subzero temperatures, and blizzard conditions accompanied by strong winds and heavy snow. Of primary concern is the winter weather's ability to knock out heat, power, or communications lines to your home or office, for an extended amount of time. The following are steps you can take to help prepare you for extended winter weather:

 

  • Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.

  • Thoroughly check and update your family's Emergency Supply Kit before winter approaches.

  • Include adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

  • If you have a car, keep the gas tank filled in case you have to leave.

  • Plan to stay inside and make it on your own, at least for a period of time.

  • If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat.

  • Listen to NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed of winter weather watches and warnings.

  • Keep in mind that during a severe winter storm it could be hours, or even days, before emergency personnel are able to reach you.

Floods

While flooding events are not as common in the northeast as they are in other parts of the country, they do occur none-the-less. Be prepared for flooding no matter where you live, but particularly if you are in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even a very small stream or dry creek bed can overflow and create flooding. Here are things you can do before a flood occurs to prevent damage:

  • Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.

  • Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.

  • If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds.

  • Get a kit of emergency supplies and prepare a portable kit in case you have to evacuate.

  • If you have a car, keep at least a half tank of gas in it at all times in case you need to evacuate.
     

After a flood occurs:

  • Do not walk through moving water, if possible. Look for areas where the water is not moving. What might seem like a small amount of moving water can easily knock you down.

  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If your vehicle becomes surrounded by rising water, get out quickly and move to higher ground, if possible.

  • Click here for information on cleanup after the flood.
     

For more information on preparing for other natural or man made disasters visit the United States Department of Homeland Security's website Ready.Gov
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