Alert from the County About Hurricane Sandy!

With the possibility that Hurricane Sandy may bring severe weather to our region over the next few days, Loudoun County officials urge residents to prepare now for the possibility of high winds and heavy rains.

Residents are reminded to secure or bring exterior items inside. so that the items do not become airborne and damage property or cause injury. Also make sure raked and bagged leaves are not in storm drains, but on resident's property until storm and rainwater have passed.

Other important precautions include simple steps, such as:

• Stock or re-stock emergency supply kits, including extra batteries, etc.

• Clean out gutters and storm drains. Keep drains clear of trash, leaves and branches, so that rainwaters can easily flow, reducing possible flooding and ponding situations.

• Remember food safety. Have a cooler on hand to keep food cold in the case of a power outage. Group food together in the freezer now so it stays cold longer.

• Have an adequate communication plan. Be sure friends and family know how to contact you. Teach family members how to use text messaging as text messages can often get around network disruptions when a phone call can’t get through.

• If there is flooding, avoid walking or driving through any flooded areas. It takes only six inches of fast-moving flood water to knock over an adult and two feet to move a vehicle. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

• Keep up to date with local conditions by following media reports and monitoring the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov (http://mobile.weather.gov on your phone) for the latest forecast.

If you have not already done so, sign up for alerts from the county including emergency information, news releases, traffic information, and more through Alert Loudoun at www.loudoun.gov/alert ; follow Loudoun County on Twitter at www.loudoun.gov/twitter; and on Facebook at www.loudoun.gov/facebook. Important information from the Loudoun County government will also be posted on www.loudoun.gov .

More information on what to do before the storm arrives is online at www.loudoun.gov/beforethestorm.