It's been decades since a hurricane made a direct hit on New York City. So even longtime Brooklyn residents may not know what to do in the event that severely impacts our area.
With the help of the city Office of Emergency Management, here's a list of tips to keep you and your family safe:
1. Know Your Zone. All of New York City has been divided into four areas ranging from those at highest risk of flooding, "Zone A," to those with little risk, called "No Zone." To find your zone, click here.
2. Know Your Closest Evacuation Center (Just In Case). For a map of the closest evacuation center, click here. In Brooklyn, centers include in Fort Greene, in Park Slope and I.S. 117 in Bed-Stuy.
3. Know What to Stock Up On. City OEM recommends packing a 'Go' Bag with items such as a first aid kit, flashlight and bottled water to last up to three days in case of severe impacts from Hurricane Irene.
4. Know That This Storm Means Business. Even in the event that Hurricane Irene misses New York, city beaches will still be a dangerous place for swimmers. As Mayor Michael Bloomberg said in today's press conference at City Hall, don't go swimming if there isn’t a lifeguard present and don’t swim at closed beaches.
5. Know That We're All In This Together. This is a chance for Brooklynites to do what they do best: Help each other out. If you have an elderly, sick or disabled neighbor, be sure to check in and see how they're faring—before, during and after the storm.
