Gentlemen - as you are probably aware by now, we are about to get nailed by two of the biggest storms to hit the Bay Area in years starting tonight.
I cannot encourage you strongly enough to take all necessary precautions for yourselves and your families - they are forecasting 4 inches of rain in the next 24 hours, with winds gusting to 55 MPH +. I hope that you will be able to stay off the roads whenever possible - it's going to get UGLY out there.
Please consider the following tips to safeguard your home - they've helped me get through hurricanes back east and are just as applicable for this situation:
* If water has entered a garage or basement, do not walk through it – it may contain hazardous materials.
* Do not try to drive over a flooded road. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately. Attempting to move a stalled vehicle in flood conditions can be fatal.
* Tune to KCBS 740 AM or local TV channels for emergency advisories and instructions.
* If you are asked to leave your property, disconnect all electrical appliances.
* Avoid downed power lines and broken gas lines. Report them to PG&E, (800) 743-5000.
* Turn off and unplug appliances and computers. Leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
* Avoid using candles, as they are fire hazards.
* Do not use a gas stove for heating or operate generators indoors (including the garage.) Both could cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
* If a traffic signal is not working, treat it as a stop sign.
* After a power outage, refrigerated food will stay cold longer if you keep the door closed. Food should generally be consumed within 4 hours. Food in the freezer will normally remain safe for 2 days.
* Cordless phones do NOT work without electricity - have a corded phone at the ready or make sure your cell phone is fully charged
* Locate and check your fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and emergency supply kit.
* Store water. This is handy in case of loss of water and sewer, flooding, or if water pipes get contaminated.
* Freeze water in large containers - in the event the power goes, stick them in the fridge - this will keep your perishables lasting longer
* Use a quality flashlight and not candles for illumination, as there may be a gas leak.
* Be sure and get all your insurance documents together - photograph anything that has even a remote chance of being damaged BEFORE it gets damaged so you have a record.
* Keep track of your pets and under no circumstances let them outdoors without a leash or properly restrained to prevent them from running off.
* If you live in a gated community - get your car outside the electric gate so that if power does fail, you will be able to drive if you need to.
I hope these prove helpful - be safe and stay dry! :)
cheers, J (co-prez) H
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