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NYC Prepares for Hurricane Irene: Safety Guidelines


A hurricane watch is in effect for New York City indicating hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours.
Irene is currently a Category 3 hurricane and is expected to reach the North Carolina coast on Saturday.
Irene is the strongest Atlantic storm to threaten the U.S. since 2005.

First time in NYC history NYC Transit will close Saturday at 12 noon. 
Mandatory evacuation in parts of city and lower Manhattan.

All residents are advised to take the following steps to prepare themselves and their residences.

Emergency Supply Kit

Keep enough supplies in your home to survive on your own for at least three days. If possible, keep these materials in an easily accessible, separate container or special cupboard. You should indicate to your household members that these supplies are for emergencies only. Check expiration dates of food and update your kits when you change your clock during daylight-saving times.
  • One gallon of drinking water per person per day
  • Non-perishable, ready-to-eat canned foods and manual can opener
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight*
  • Battery-operated AM/FM radio and extra batteries (you can also buy wind-up radios that do not require batteries)
  • Whistle
  • Iodine tablets or one quart of unscented bleach (for disinfecting water ONLY if directed to do so by health officials) and eyedropper (for adding bleach to water)
  • Personal hygiene items: soap, feminine hygiene products, toothbrush and toothpaste, etc.
  • Phone that does not rely on electricity
  • Child care supplies or other special care items
Go Bag
Every household should pack a Go Bag - a collection of items you may need in the event of an evacuation. A Go Bag should be packed in a sturdy, easy-to-carry container such as a backpack or suitcase on wheels. A Go Bag should be easily accessible if you have to leave your home in a hurry. Make sure it is ready to go at all times of the year.
  • Copies of your important documents in a waterproof and portable container (insurance cards, photo IDs, proof of address, etc.)
  • Extra set of car and house keys
  • Credit and ATM cards and cash, especially in small denominations. We recommend you keep at least $50-$100 on hand.
  • Bottled water and non-perishable food such as energy or granola bars
  • Flashlight
    Note: Traditional flashlight bulbs have limited lifespans. Light Emitting Diode (LED) flashlights, however, are more durable and last up to 10 times longer than traditional bulbs.
  • Battery-operated AM/FM radio and extra batteries
  • Keep a list of the medications each member of your household takes, why they take them, and their dosages. Medication information and other essential personal items. If you store extra medication in your Go Bag, be sure to refill it before it expires.
  • First-aid kit
  • Contact and meeting place information for your household, and a small regional map
  • Child care supplies or other special care items

Residents with Balconies, Terraces  or any Outdoor Space


If your apartment has a terrace or balcony, make sure nothing can become airbourne during a high wind condition. This includes awnings, umbrellas, boxes, plants or trees, outdoor furniture, toys etc. Store all furniture cushions, plantings decorative items inside your apartment. Any items that can't be stored inside must be secured and tied down.
At the same time, make sure the drains on your terrace are free from debris that can create a flooding condition. Turn off irrigation systems. During the storm do not congregate near windows and/or balcony/terrace doors.


The Corcoran Group Gallery Office will be closed Saturday and Sunday. Sunday open houses are cancelled. All NYC mass transportation will close Sat at 12 noon. Hoping these proceedures will be unneccessary and it turns out to be nothing big and you and your families are all safe!
For up to minute information: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/#IRENE



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