It is the priority of the East Greenwich Fire District to assure the safety of everyone during potentially dangerous weather events, and strongly encourages all residents to make preparations for their homes and families.  Being preparaed for any emergency requires planning.  Be ready for basic services such as electricity, water, heat, air conditioning, telephone and transportation to be disrupted or lost for some time.  Emergency Management planners suggest having food, water, medication and other essential items on hand to last your family for three to five days.  Click the links below for more information.

• Learn all the facts about hurricane preparadness from the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency.
  

• Follow Hurricane Updates from the National Hurricane Center.
  

• Find out how to be prepared for any emergency from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
  

• When listening to weather forcasts it is important for you to understand the meaning of watches and warnings.
  

-  HURRICANE WATCH:  Hurricane conditions are possible, usually within 36 hrs.

-  HURRICAN WARNING:  Hurricane conditions are expected, usually within 24 hrs.

-  SHORT TERM WATCHES/WARNINGS:  Provide detailed information on specific hurricane                      threats, such as tornadoes, floods, and high winds.

CLICK PICTURE FOR UPDATED SATELLITE LOOP IMAGING FOR CURRENT STORM THREATENING OUR AREA

DURING A HURRICANE WATCH

• Listen to the radio, TV, or NOAA Weather Radio for official bulletins of storm progress.
  

• Review updates about municipal services and programs that will be broadcast on TV and Radio.
  

• Ensure your vehicle is fueled and you have enough provisions to last a few days.
  

• Prepare to bring in lawn furniture and other loose, light weight objects in your yard.
  

DURING A HURRICANE WARNING

• Closely monitor radio, TV, or NOAA Weather Radio for official bulletins of storm progress.
  

• Follow instructions issued by local officials.  LEAVE IMMEDIATELY IF TOLD TO DO SO!
  

• Turn your refridgerator to maximum cold and open only if necessary.
  

• Fill bathtub and large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
  

• If wind becomes strong, stay away from windows and doors.  Go to an interior first floor room such as a bathroom or closet.  Close all interior doors and brace external doors.
  

ADVANCED PLANNING

• Meet with neighbors and plan how you can work together in the event of a major disaster.
  

• Identify elderly and disabled living in your area that may need help before, during or after the storm.
  

• Keep a first aid kit, medications, eyeglasses and hearing aid batteries on hand.
  

• Teach children how to reach family members in case they become separated during a storm.
  

• Discuss how to dial emergency numbers with children and practice escape routes from all rooms.
  

If you have any questions or concerns or need information about emergency services available in your area please call the East Greenwich Fire District at (401) 886-8686.

UPDATED August 31, 2010