How You Can Prepare for Hurricane Sandy

As power companies gear up for possible outages in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, they offer tips to residents to prepare and stay safe.

The deadly, Category 2 storm lashed Cuba on Thursday; weather forecasters predict its effects could felt in the DC metro region by Sunday.

Here are a few ways to stay safe, in the event of a major storm:

Stay informed. Stay aware of changing weather conditions and plan ahead. Have a battery-powered radio with a weather band so you can hear emergency information when the power is out.

Make a plan. Discuss and document an emergency plan with those in your care. Develop a family emergency plan that includes alternative arrangements should the need arise to leave your home. Make provisions for special needs of any family member such as the elderly, handicapped, medically affected or infants. If you are dependent on electric-powered medical equipment, you are encouraged to seek alternate arrangements in the event that your electric service is interrupted.

Make a list of emergency phone numbers and keep a personal telephone book and one corded phone or a cell phone on hand. Residents are also urged to stay away from power lines during the storm.

Build an emergency kit. Keep enough emergency supplies on hand for you and those in your care. Remember supplies for children, those with special needs and pets. Keep the following items readily available:

• Flashlights – not candles
• Fresh batteries
• Battery-operated clock radio
• Corded telephone
• Fully charged cell phone
• Non-perishable foods
• Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation
• First aid kit
• Local maps
• Blankets

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Germantown Patch Editor Tiffany Arnold contributed to this report.