Storm's A' Comin'

Someone asked me today if I am prepared for the expected hurricane and if I have my emergency kit ready. I was about to say, well, I know right where my wind-up flashlight is and I think there are a few beers in my fridge, how's that for prepared? And my spouse jumped in saying, "We used up all our emergency supplies in the earthquake." His sarcasm highlighted the idea that it just seems so unlikely that any natural disaster could hit us here in Middletown and have us really pulling out those kits. There is sometimes a fine line between confident preparedness and falling for the hype, working yourself up into a ball of anxiety about "what if." I do my best to strike a healthy balance, and feel like I'm not too concerned about it, and will deal with whatever I need to at the time if anything happens.

The City of Middletown does have something official to say about it. Their statement is below:

Contact: Louis Carta

Phone: 860- 344-3482

August 25, 2011

Cell: 860-398-1824

CITY READIES FOR HURRICANE

Planning Underway To Respond To Storm Damage

Middletown — Mayor Sebastian Giuliano said that the city is gearing up to deal with the impending arrival of Hurricane Irene in the next few days.

The Mayor reported that his office has been working with emergency management services, police, fire, health and other departments on ways to respond to any potential problems that may arise from the storm and its remnants. However, Giuliano suggested that residents take the advice of the American Red Cross and begin making their own storm-preparation plans.

The Red Cross recommends the following

• Have a three-day supply of water for every household member (one gallon per person, per day) on-hand along with food which doesn’t require refrigeration, flashlights, a battery-operated radio and a first aid kit.

• Have several days of any prescriptions that you or family members are taking.

• Have extra food and medications for pets.

• Bring items inside which may be carried by the wind.

• Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.

• Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings as the storm approaches so that food will last longer if the power goes out.

• Fill your vehicles gas tank.

• Close windows, doors and shutters during high winds. Consider boarding windows and doors with plywood.

The police and fire departments warned residents to avoid coming in contact with downed power lines.

Residents affected by the storm are asked not to call 911 unless there is a police, fire, or medical emergency or are in eminent danger.

Mayor Giuliano said that additional information, including possible shelter openings, will be forth-coming and available through the media as well as on the city’s website @

www.cityofmiddletown.com

Annual Red Cross Turkey Run

Broad Street was temporarily turned into a motorcycle parking lot as the Renegade Pigs Motorcycle Club hosted their annual turkey run for the Red Cross.

The motorcade pulled up in front of the Red Cross building, led by a semi laden with frozen turkeys. A bucket-brigade line of leather jackets and chaps was quickly formed in the frigid wind to pass the frigid birds from the semi to awaiting Red Cross delivery vehicles.

The gathered riders were in high spirits, though a bit bone-chilled, and the only sign of dismay was the moan that issued from the crowd any time a slippery bird tumbled to the ground.

The Red Cross will distribute the birds to families in need over the upcoming holidays.