September is National Preparedness Month. The Atlantic Hurricane activity is underway, and while we missed the tropical depression, there are several other systems active currently. The St. Tammany Parish Government offers an alert system that residents can sign up for on the parish government website at stpgov.org.
Nixle is also a free sign-up notification service that the Covington Police Department uses to get information out to the public. Visit the Nixle website and enter the zip code of your area to join the notification service. The City of Covington website (covla.com) also routinely posts news and updates.
Your preparedness checklist should include basic items like bottled water, canned foods, batteries, flashlights, first aid kit, extra fuel for vehicles and generators, evacuation routes, pet supplies (food, etc.).
When running a generator, keep in mind that the generator emits carbon dioxide and must be vented. Do not run the generator in an enclosed room without ventilation.
Be aware of downed power lines. Do not attempt to move downed lines, even if they appear to be dead. Check on neighbors who may have special needs, i.e. the elderly and those with small children. Visit fema.gov
