St. John's News

Ready New York Presentation Prepares St. John’s Employees for Hurricane Season

July 14, 2008

What would you do if a hurricane hit New York City? Most people probably would not know what to do because of the infrequency of hurricanes that affect those living in the tri-state area. But did you know that because New York City is highly populated and located on the coastline, if a hurricane were to hit, it would be catastrophic? During the month of July, Emergency Preparedness presentations were given to all three St. John’s University New York campuses by the New York City Office of Emergency Management.  Those in attendance were informed about what to do if a hurricane were to affect the New York City area and since we are now in hurricane season, flood zones were identified and the New York City Evacuation plan was discussed.
 
“It’s imperative that you have an emergency plan in place for you and your family” said Keisha Husbands, Ready NY Outreach Coordinator from the Office of Emergency Management. Specific emphasis was placed on personal preparedness and the need to have a family plan, which includes creating a “Go Bag” containing critical items such as:

  • Copies of important documents -Personal ID
  • Extra set of car and house keys
  • Bottled water and non-perishable food
  • Flashlight/battery operated AM/FM radio with extra batteries
  • List of medications
  • First aid kit
  • Child, pet care and other special items
  • Lightweight raingear and some cash
  • Critical telephone numbers and household meeting plan

For more information regarding personal emergency preparedness go to the Ready New York link (www.nyc.gov/readyny) and/or to NYC OEM’s (www.nyc.gov/oem).