As the Storm Approaches ...

From McKean County Emergency Management Director Bruce Manning:

This will be a very bad storm the commonwealth has already declared a disaster and the President has also declared Pennsylvania a disaster area. So please do not take this lightly. For the approaching storm some of the items people should have ready: Flash lights, LED flash lights are very good as they will last munch longer then incandescent flash lights. DO NOT use candles, there a very high risk of fire with the use of candles. Spare batteries, Water at least 1-2 gallons per person per day.

First aid kit, Cell phone charger that you can charge from you vehicle. Because when and if the power goes out you need a way to keep your cell phone charged. Non perishable food, such as can goods, water, you should store water now so if the power goes out you will be ready, bread, peanut butter, and a manual can opener. If you loose power try to keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as the food will last longer. Battery powered radio so you can hear the news and don't forget the extra batteries for the radio. Try to have at least 3 days of supplies available. If you run a generator be sure to run it outside away from windows and doors. You don't want carbon monoxide getting into your home. If you have special needs such as home oxygen make plans now to have it available or have a way to go some place to get the oxygen you need. If needed there will be shelters established around the county, monitor local news on a portable radio. If you loose electrical power be sure to notify the electric co. The more calls they get the more it helps them see where the problems are located and they can plan there work accordingly. There is no reason to call 911 if you loose power.

Be sure you have a full tank of gas if you do need to go out.

If you a internet phone service (VOIP) and the internet goes down you will have no phone service.

If you don’t have to be out side or on the roads stay home. If the power is out treat all stop lights as a 4 way stop sign.

Remember this storm has the potential to be a very disastrous storm and the predictions are for the center of the storm to pass through Pennsylvania. The sustained winds will be above 40 mph with gust over 65 mph.