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WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – As residents anticipate how Hurricane Sandy will impact the area, the City of White Plains is taking actions to decrease the potential for flooding, Karen Pasquale of the mayor’s office said Friday.
The city’s Department of Public Works has been clearing storm drains and catch basins, particularly in the city’s low-lying areas. The city also is asking residents to help its efforts by not piling leaves in or near the street to prevent the storm from washing them into vital storm drains.
To report a blocked catch basin, call 914-422-1333. To report downed wires call the Public Safety Department’s nonemergency number, 914-422-6111.
Current projections indicate that the storm will either continue northward toward the New York metropolitan area, or shift west and make landfall on the coast of Delaware.
Residents can sign up for the city's Code Red alert system to receive up-to-date emergency instructions and notifications in preparation for Hurricane Sandy.
The city advises resident to take logical precautions, including:
- Fill up your car and backup generator gas tanks.
- Fill your prescriptions ahead of time to avoid running out of medication during and after the storm.
- Be prepared with an emergency plan and up-to-date supplies.
- Get extra ice and dry ice to help keep food cold.
- If you lose power, keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible.
- Ensure your oil tanks are filled and securely capped to avoid floating, tipping and oil spills.
- Tanks at grade level should have their vents covered with plastic to prevent water from getting inside.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during and immediately after the storm, to give utility and road crews time to clear trees and downed wires.
- Residents should also secure all items in yards or other open areas, stock up on batteries, flashlights, candles, water and nonperishable foods that do not require cooking.
Check back with The White Plains Daily Voice for storm updates.
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