Eyeing the storm: Emergency preparedness tips - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

Hurricane Isaac may seem to be making a turn, leaving Richmond in the clear. But, emergency experts say this is hurricane season and now is the time to prepare.

The Richmond ambulance authority has already started preparations, just in case Isaac surprises us.

"We know that whenever any hurricane hits, we have a degree of notice and so we have a checklist and a time of preparation down from 120 hours out to the landfall of the hurricane itself," said Rob Lawrence, Chief Operator Richmond Ambulance Authority.

Emergency responders across the region have already considered where they'll need resources and what types of tools they need to have ready to go.

"Even as the storms are very far off...we're making preparations," said Patrick Holland, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Richmond City Health District

That's not a bad idea for residents, either. It's hurricane season, but in any emergency experts say you need to be able to survive for at least three days without help. 

"If you have a medical need," said Holland. "You need to get extra supplies ahead of time. Have them on hand because we don't have those to give out."

Experts recommend packing water, food, batteries, and anything else that you think you'll need. Also, make a plan ahead of time for how you will respond. Where will your pets go? Who will pick up the kids?

"If for some time communication goes down, figure out a way to work out where will your family go to? Where will they meet at if you can't communicate with each other?" said Holland.

And keep in mind, cell phones might be jammed up. Even if they're not, experts suggest texting so you can keep phone lines open for emergency crews responding to the hardest hit areas.

To learn more, go to: www.ready.gov 

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