First Selectman Urges Emergency Preparedness

The following Official Town Press Release from the Office of the First Selectman comes to you courtesy of the Greenwich Community and Police Partnership (“CAPP”).

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According to the National Hurricane Center, Earl is forecast to accelerate to the North Northeast at 25 MPH on Friday and brush Southeastern New England Friday evening as a Category II hurricane.

There is a 40 – 50% chance for sustained Tropical Storm force winds in Southeastern CT Friday evening.

Also an expected 3 – 4 inches of heavy rainfall may cause urban and small stream flooding in Southeastern CT as the Hurricane passes to the Southeast along with large sea waves.

“We are closely watching this storm,” said Mr. Tesei. “Even though most news outlets are cautiously optimistic, I am urging all Town residents to remain alert and be prepared.”

The Town urges residents to adhere to the following best practices as outlined by the Greenwich chapter of the American Red Cross: If a Hurricane WATCH is issued:

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm information.
• Bring things indoors that could cause damage to your home, such as outdoor furniture.
• Turn off electricity and water. Leave natural gas on; turn off propane gas service.
• If high winds are expected, cover the windows. Make trees more wind resistant by removing diseased and damaged limbs.
• Protect your valuables; make a visual or written record of all of your household possessions. Record model and serial numbers.
• Gather essential supplies and important papers.
• Fill your car’s gas tank.
• Recheck manufactured home tie-downs.
• Check batteries and stock up on canned food, first aid supplies, drinking water and medications. If a Hurricane WARNING is issued:
• Listen to local officials – leave if told to do so.
• If you are not advised to evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows.
• The worst part of the storm will happen once the eye passes over and the winds blow from the opposite direction.
• Be alert for tornadoes.  Remain indoors, in the center of your home, in a closet or bathroom without windows. September is National Preparedness month.

Because natural disasters like hurricanes can occur at any time, the Greenwich Department of Health is reminding all residents to be prepared.

“With today’s changing weather patterns, it is as important as ever to be prepared for emergencies of all kinds. At this moment, the U. S. Eastern Seaboard is bracing for Hurricane Earl. If the storm stays on its predicted track, Southeastern New England could see the effects on Friday evening with strong gusts of wind, rain and minor coastal flooding.  Although we are three days off from seeing anything, the Town is watching its every move closely. While government does its part in preparing for disasters, individual action and responsibility is needed. By making preparations in advance, you will have necessary items available and be more confident in making decisions,” stated Caroline Calderone Baisley, Director of Health.

The Department of Health advises residents to make an Emergency Supply Kit and to keep emergency contact phone numbers listed below handy. Also residents are encouraged to visit websites including the Town’s website (www.greenwichct.org), The American Red Cross (www.redcross.org), and the federal government (www.ready.gov) for pointers on personal readiness and listen to local news radio stations (WGCH 1490 AM or WLNK 1350 AM) for up to date information.

During an emergency the Town may opt to use the Reverse 911 system to send a recorded message to each resident that has a published number. All residents with non-published numbers must sign on through the Town’s website under the First Selectman’s Emergency Preparedness page. Cell phone numbers can also be programmed for contact.

TO REPORT ONLY EMERGENCIES – For all Police, Fire and EMS emergencies, dial 911. Local Non-Emergency Phone Numbers:

• Town of Greenwich – www.greenwichct.org (203) 622 7700
• Greenwich Department of Health, Division of Environmental Health (203)-622-7838
• Greenwich Fire Department non-emergency (203)-622-7800
• Greenwich Police Department non-emergency (203)-622-8003
• Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Service – American Medical Response (AMR) 1-800-379-7700
• Department of Parks and Recreation Tree Division (203)-622-7824
• Greenwich Chapter, American Red Cross (203)-869-8444

The following information has been assembled for the general public:

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

• Candles, flashlights and battery-powered radios
• First Aid Items: bandages, blankets, First Aid handbook and all special medicines.
• A supply of non-perishable goods that require no cooking or refrigeration and a can opener
• A minimum of one-gallon of water per person a day.
• Materials such as wire, rope, chlorine disinfectant, fire extinguishers, extra blankets, lumber and sandbags

STORM CONDITIONS Power Outages Storm conditions can bring high winds, torrential rain, flooding and power outages when storm warnings are in effect, stay tuned to local radio stations WGCH 1490 AM and WLNK 1350AM or Cablevision Channel 12 for official bulletins. Keep a battery-powered radio handy, stay indoors, travel only if necessary. Motor vehicles should be kept off the street so emergency response crews can access the area to clear trees, service wires and respond to medical emergencies. Power outages can pose health hazards. Community shelters will be opened and available if needed.

During power outages:

• Unplug your appliances
• Generators should be used with caution. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and NEVER operate a generator indoors. DO NOT supply generator power to your home’s main line as you may injure a utility employee. Be aware of pooled water at all times.
• Conserve fuel and water. A few large containers can be filled with warm water for an emergency supply.
• Observe health and safety precautions when issued especially during times of fallen trees and power lines.
• Do not use charcoal grills indoors or gas stoves as a source of heat. Either one can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• When using candles, do so with extreme caution.  Fireplaces may be used as long as they are properly vented.
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed. When anticipating a power failure, set refrigerator and freezer temperatures to a colder setting to build up a cooling reserve. With the door closed, fully stacked freezers will keep for two days, while half full freezers will keep food for one day. Dry ice can be used safely in freezers; however, gloves must be worn in handling and proceed as recommended.
• All thawed food may be cooked if maintained below 45o, otherwise it should be discarded. It is not recommended to refreeze any food once it has thawed. Any questions about food spoilage can be directed to the Division of Environmental Services at (203)-622-7838.
• Refrigerated food, especially perishable items such as eggs, milk, fish, meat and poultry, should be maintained at 45o, or below. Foods should be cooked or discarded after three hours of not being maintained at proper temperatures. All stuffed meats and poultry should be discarded. Any doubt concerning food items, discard or contact the Division of Environmental Health at 622-7838, to discuss certain situations. Flooding: During a storm, flood waters may enter your home or flood your property.
• If your home or workplace is flooding, turn off the furnace and the gas valve at the appliance. Do not handle energized electrical equipment in wet areas. If meter goes under water, shut off the gas valves and all appliances. Be sure to have the electrical system thoroughly checked and repaired before use. Additional information can be obtained by calling Connecticut Natural Gas at 203-869-6900.
• Never try to cross a flooded area on foot. The water may be unsanitary, the water may be fast running and there could be power lines down.
• If you are in a car, avoid driving through floodwaters. Fast water could sweep your car away. However, if you are caught in fast rising waters and your vehicle stalls, leave the car.
• Private wells that have been flooded must be disinfected and sampled before use. It is important to wait until flood waters have receded to the point where waste disposal and septic systems can operate normally. A well drilling company can arrange this service – drink bottled water in the meantime. Well disinfection procedures are available by contacting the Department of Health’s Division of Environmental Services at (203)-622-7838.

Wait until flood waters are below basement level before trying to drain or pump the basement.

• Never allow children to play in flood waters. Flood waters are considered contaminated. Clean all toys and equipment with a disinfectant or discard them.
• All clothing, curtains, bedding, etc. should be washed with hot, soapy water, than bleached if possible. Furniture and floors may be rinsed with clean water after washing with soap and water; disinfect if possible. (See other printed material entitled- Cleaning and Repairing flooded basements, Recommendations for equipment, furniture and appliance cleaning.
• Do not handle electrical equipment in wet areas.
• Wear protective clothing while cleaning up debris.
• All food items exposed to flood waters should be discarded. Cans and conventional jars free of rust or dents must be washed and sanitized before they are opened. If you are in doubt, throw it out. Call (203)-622-7838 with further questions.
• Cooperate with local officials on all emergency responses. Fallen Trees:
• Fallen trees can cause a major problem. Trees on private property will be the responsibility of the homeowner. When a Town tree falls onto private property the Town will be responsible for the removal of all wood and brush. All calls will be handled on a first come bases unless it is an emergency situation. Patience is requested since all roads and critical municipality infrastructures must be cleaned and cleared first.
• When any tree falls on a power line and causes it to come down or block a Town road or right-of way, the situation should be reported immediately.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Warzoha, Emergency Management Director – 622-2222 Caroline Calderone Baisley, Director of Health – 622 7836