Tropical Storm Fay No Longer Threat to DC

National Weather Service has advised that Tropical Storm Fay is no longer a threat to affect Washington D.C.

However, it remains essential to make general hurricane preparations, as August to October is the peak of hurricane season in our area.

Have disaster supplies on hand.
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water supply
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines and prescriptions
• Cash and credit cards
• Sturdy shoes

Monitor Media Updates.
Stay tuned to local radio for information on evacuation routes and shelter locations. The primary radio stations for news and traffic are WTOP 103.5FM, WMAL 630 AM, WJZW 105.9FM, WKYS 93.9 FM, WHFS 99.1FM and WPGC 95.5FM

Make shelter arrangements for pets.
Pets may not be allowed into emergency shelters for health and space reasons. Contact the D.C. Animal Shelter (24 Hour) (202) 576-6664 or the Government of the District Columbia Citywide Call Center (202) 727-1000 for information on local animal shelters.

Protect your windows.
Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach is to put up plywood panels. Use 1/2-inch plywood--marine plywood is best--cut to fit each window. Remember to mark which board fits which window. Pre-drill holes every 18 inches and install screws. Complete this action well before arrival of the storm.

Protect your property.
Trim dead or weak or weak branches from trees. Remove or secure lawn furnishings, trashcans and other items, which could become airborne causing damage or personal injury.
Get adequate insurance coverage. Be certain you have adequate home insurance coverage. Your standard home policy does not cover damage from the flooding that accompanies a hurricane. Contact the D.C. Floodplain Coordinator, 202-535-2248, to learn more about FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program. Normally, there is a 30-day waiting period before a new policy becomes effective.

Develop an emergency communication plan.
In case family members are separated from one another during a disaster (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.

Hurricane Watches and Warnings.
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours. A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 24 hours or less.