Following the devastating flooding and deaths in the Houston area as a result of Hurricane Harvey, Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) is encouraging New Yorkers to remain prepared as Long Island enters the most active part of the yearly hurricane season.

“What has happened in the Houston area is deeply tragic, and my sincere condolences go out to the families who have been affected and lost loved ones to this disaster,” McDonough said. “While it is difficult to find positivity in such an awful situation, we must remember that even though many hurricanes most strongly affect the Gulf of Mexico, that doesn’t mean Long Island is in the clear. We must start preparing now, and prepare our homes and properties as we enter hurricane season’s peak months.”

Hurricane season typically runs from early June to late November, with its peak between mid-August and late October. Oftentimes, hurricane warnings conveying that a storm system is imminent are only issued 36 hours in advance, so it is paramount to always be prepared.

It is very important to visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes for more information in the case of such an event.

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist:

• Know your evacuation routes;
• Have flashlight, batteries, money, first aid supplies, medications,` non-perishable food, clean water and emergency contacts on hand;
• Keep all trees on your property free of damaged and low-lying limbs;
• Secure all rain gutters, roofing, windows, doors and garage doors;
• Have a generator on site in case of power outages;
• Construct a safe room or storm shelter for protection from winds; and
• Pay close attention to local radio and news for storm updates.