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Community Corner

Hurricane Season: Get Ready for the Unexpected

How Long Island residents can be prepared.

After a long and dreadful winter, Long Islanders could not wait for the warmer weather, but along with the beautiful beach days, summer can also bring the threat of a hurricane.

This natural disaster is unavoidable, but the residents can be prepared and know what to do if and when a hurricane hits Long Island.

The Atlantic hurricane season officially started on June 1 and goes through Nov. 30. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, they have predicted 12 to 18 named storms, of which six to 10 can become hurricanes including three to six major ones (listed as a Category 3 or higher.)

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So what can we do to be prepared for a hurricane this season?

Everyone should have an emergency safety kit, which includes essential prescriptions and nonprescription medicine, a battery powered flashlight, clothing, any personal items and important documents. For a complete list of items that should be included in your emergency kit look at the attacted the documents.

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In addition to having an emergency kit, residents should know where they have to go if an evacuation is to take place. Nassau County has designated specific locations that residents can go to, where food will be provided by the American Red Cross. The list is made up of many schools and colleges in the area, including .

If power is lost for a few days the radio station will still be able to broadcast messages because it has a back-up generator. If you have a hand-crank radio you'l be able to find out what is happening during and after the storm.

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