I know most parts of the US is suffering under tremendous heat but those of us in Maine are being treated to cool temps and even early frosts. This weekend It was in the 60s for highs and lows touched into the 30s at night. Hurricane Dean is one to watch. We called for a hurricane in the Gulf States August 17 – 19th. Looks like we will miss the hit by a couple days but Dean is one to watch as it currently packs winds of 150 mph.

I’ve mentioned lightning strikes. We know that roughly 100 people die from lightning each year. It also injures another 500. A gentleman in Maine was taking a shower just before a thunder storm hit. Unfortunately his timing was off. As he touched the faucet in the shower, a bolt hit him not once but twice. It shot him out of the shower onto the floor and provided numbness on his right arm. In the best of all worlds, one should stay off the phone, away from metal and plumbing during thunderstorms. Lightning finds the quickest way to the ground including metal and wires.

With tropical storms becoming more active, let me reprint survival tips from the 2007 Farmers’ Almanac. Take a moment to review this list. And, go to our website and click on weather and then Hurricanes for video and other suggestions.

Hurricane Tips

BEFORE HURRICANE SEASON:
•Develop or review a family hurricane safety plan.
•Learn safe routes inland.
•Find out where official shelters are located.
•Ensure that you have enough nonperishable food and water on hand.

IF A HURRICANE WATCH HAS BEEN ISSUED:
•Prepare to cover all windows and doors, preferably with plywood.
•Prepare disaster supply kit (see below).
•Move lightweight objects inside.
•Fuel and service family vehicles.
•Have extra cash on hand.

IF A HURRICANE WARNING HAS BEEN ISSUED:
•Complete preparation activities.
•Follow instructions issued by local officials.
•If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
•Leave mobile homes.
•Notify family living outside the warned area of your plans.
•Fill the bathtub and large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
•Turn off propane tanks.
•Unplug small appliances.

DURING A STORM:
•Stay inside.
•Stay away from windows and doors (even if boarded).
•Move to small interior room on the first floor.

AFTER A STORM:
•Wait until an area is declared safe before returning.
•Do not drive into flooded roadways.
•Do not allow children to play in flooded areas.
•Use flashlights (not candles) for emergency lighting.
•Beware of downed power lines that may be electrically charged.
•Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

DISASTER SUPPLY KIT:
•A3-day supply of water (1 gallon per person per day).
•Food that won’t spoil (canned and dried goods).
•Prescription medicines.
•Toiletries.
•First aid kit.
•Battery-powered radio.
•Flashlight, extra batteries.
•Extra set of clothing and shoes for each person.
•One blanket or sleeping bag per person.
•Hand (manual) can opener.
•Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members.

In addition, have the following readily available and sealed in a moisture-proof package:
•Identification.
•Valuable papers (insurance).
•Extra money or a credit card.

Source: National Weather Service

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