In the last few weeks, many areas of New York state have experienced widespread flooding and destruction due to Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. Families and businesses have lost everything—from their homes to their livelihoods. Six New Yorkers even lost their lives in Hurricane Irene.

Here, in New York, we’re not used to preparing for hurricanes and tropical storms. Blizzards are more the norm in the Northeast. However, these last few weeks have proven that any type of weather-related disaster can happen at any time, and we should have a plan in place. Being prepared can not only help save your home and belongings, but your life and those of your family members as well.

The New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services offers several safety tips for all kinds of pending disasters. An ice storm, hurricane, health threat, or act of terrorism can occur quickly and without warning. Be ready to protect yourself and your family by following these safety steps:

1. Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Emergencies may strike anywhere. Develop a plan at home. But also learn about plans at your workplace, or anywhere else you and your family may spend time. Some specific things you can do include:

• Know how to contact all family members at all times. Identify an out-of-town friend or family member to be the "emergency family contact." Then make certain all family members have that number.
• Designate a family emergency meeting point, some familiar location where the family can meet in the event the home is inaccessible.
• Prepare an emergency phone list of people and organizations that may need to be called, including schools, doctors, child/senior care providers, and insurance agents.
• Make arrangements on where to relocate pets during a storm.
• Have your family learn basic safety and first aid measures.
• Practice the Plan!

2. Stock up on Emergency Supplies: Often during an emergency, electricity, heat, air conditioning or telephone service may not work. Be prepared to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe longer, and understand safe cooking and sanitary practices without using utility services.

3. Be Aware: Sign up for NY-ALERT at www.nyalert.gov to receive emergency notifications. Also, know what other resources can provide you with up-to-date information during an emergency. Pay attention to the news and know your surroundings.

4. Get Involved: Be generous and donate some of your time to help out a friend or neighbor—or even a stranger—in distress.

Winter is not too far away and severe rain storms will be replaced by blizzards and blinding lake effect snow squalls. Is your family prepared for the next big storm?

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Just a reminder! My town hall meeting with Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb has been moved to Monday, Oct. 17 from 6:30- 8 pm. The location also has changed to the Lowville Municipal Building, 5535 Bostwick St., Lowville. Seating is limited, so RSVP for this Town Hall today by calling my office at 315-493-3909. Then visit www.reformny.org to join nearly 2,500 New Yorkers who support a “People’s Convention.”