Release #418-96

Contact:Jack Deacy (212) 788-2958 or Bradford E. Billet, OEM (212) 442-9260

The National Hurricane Center issued a Hurricane Watch for the New York City area at 5 p.m. In response, the City has set up a special Hurricane Helpline -- (212) 374 -2303 -- to inform New Yorkers about the storm and what precautions they should be taking. The City also began distributing leaflets in neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs which are most in danger of tidal flooding and high winds. The City's Emergency Command Center at Police Headquarters was activated at 11 am today and will continue to operate round the clock.

Mayor Giuliani said, "This storm continues to pose a threat to life and property and the National Hurricane Center has now issued a Hurricane Watch for the New York City Metropolitan Area. I urge all New Yorkers to start to prepare to take the precautions necessary and urge them to keep themselves updated on radio and television as to the storm's progress. We will be issuing daily updates at the Command Center."

Hurricane Eduoard is now approximately 550 miles southeast of New York City and moving north at about 12 mph with sustained high winds of 120 miles per hour.

The Mayor's Office of Emergency Management urges New Yorkers to take the following precautions to prepare for the potential emergency:

• Check to make sure you have on hand the following necessities:
  • A supply of non-perishable food items including water for drinking (1 gallon per person/per day) and sanitary purposes.
  • A manually operated can opener.
  • Baby supplies (if applicable).
  • Plastic garbage bags.
  • First aid kit.
  • Fire extinguisher.
  • Battery powered radio, with extra batteries.
  • Any required medication.
  • Cash (if power or phone lines are lost, ATM machines and credit cards may be useless).

• Take the following precautionary measures:
  • Stay tuned to local radio and or television stations for the latest weather and emergency advisories.
  • Fill your automobile gas tank, (service stations may be inoperable after the storm).
  • Board up windows or protect them with shutters. Wind pressure and flying debris may shatter them.
  • Tie down or bring inside outdoor objects that might be blown away. Do not bring propane tanks indoors.
  • Moor small watercraft or move to a safe shelter.
  • Securely tie down mobile homes and trailers.
  • Check on relatives, neighbors and friends who are elderly, disabled or have special needs. Your assistance in making any necessary preparations may save their lives.
  • Be prepared to evacuate if requested to do so by local officials.

• If you must evacuate take the following precautions:
  • Pack only what you need to live for two days (clothing, sundries, etc.)
  • Take important papers with you, including identification with local address and necessary insurance policies.
  • Shut gas valves off at the appliance, not the main.
  • Turn electricity off at the main switch.
  • Advise friends or relatives where you are going.
  • Seek shelter with friends or family outside of the storm surge area.
  • Seek shelter at an authorized Hurricane Evacuation Center.

• If your area has not been evacuated:
  • You may still seek shelter at a Hurricane Evacuation Center.
  • If you are going to remain in your home keep away from windows and doors and seek shelter in an interior room or corridor, take any necessary supplies with you.