Community Corner
Hurricane Season: Get Ready for the Unexpected
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted 12 to 18 named storms.
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 residents can be prepared and know what to do if and when a hurricane hits Long Island.
The Atlantic hurricane season officially started June 1 and goes through November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has 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).
Find out what's happening in Garden Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.
So what can we do to be prepared for a hurricane this season?
Everyone should have an emergency safety kit, which includes essential prescription and non-prescription 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 attached documents.
Find out what's happening in Garden Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.
In addition to having an emergency kit, residents should know where they have to go in case of an evacuation. 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 Nassau Community College and Garden City High School.
According to village clerk Brian Ridgway, Garden City has an emergency management team, mostly comprised of department heads and fire department chiefs, and utilizes Swiftreach Networks, Inc., an emergency notification service provider, to inform residents and businesses of an emergency situation, such as a storm evacuation.
Sign up for Swift 911 alerts by providing your information by mail to village clerk Brian Ridgway (351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City) or log onto www.gardencityny.net and click Swift 911. All calls received will have the caller ID of the "Incorporated Village of Garden City." Only village hall can activate or send an alert.
If Long Island gets hit by a hurricane this season will you be prepared? Take a look at the documents to the right to be ready if the unexpected occurs.
