Nassau County's coastal resources and recreational facilities help make it a unique and rewarding place to live, work and raise a family. At the same time, our Island's geographic location and population density leave us particularly vulnerable to hurricanes that can move up the coast, as was the case with Hurricane Gloria in 1986 and Hurricane Bob in 1990. It is important that in addition to the available emergency preparedness services provided through governmental units and voluntary organizations, the residents of Nassau County become familiar with the means and methods of preparing for a hurricane in order to protect themselves, their families, and their property.

The most significant damage sustained in hurricanes is usually the result of flooding and storm surge, not wind. Flooding may occur by heavy sustained rains over hours or days depending upon the movement of the storm. Storm surge is a dome-like rise in the ocean, sound or bay level which is on top of the tidal height of the water. A storm surge may occur not only on the south shore, but also along the north shore of Long Island from Orient Point to Great Neck depending on the location and movement of the storm.

In the event that a hurricane should reach Long Island, there are some important procedures that Nassau County residents should know. If a Hurricane Watch is put into effect, this means that there is a threat of a hurricane hitting within 24-36 hours. Whereas, a Hurricane Warning is put into effect when a hurricane is expected to hit within 24 hours. When a Flash Flood watch is announced, a flash flood in the area is a possibility so residents should stay alert. A Flash Flood Warning means a flash flood is imminent; take action immediately. It is also important to note that hurricanes sometimes spawn tornadoes, which can produce severe damage and casualties. Residents should stay alert for tornado warnings during a hurricane. While there is little we are able to do to prevent storms, we must be prepared to safeguard both lives and property in the best way possible. The Nassau County Emergency Management Office works year-round with Federal, State, and local governments and volunteer-based organizations to prepare the county residents for emergency situations.

Despite our county's efforts and preparation, the success of our emergency response is greatly dependent on Nassau County residents. There are several measures that all residents should take in order to be prepared for hurricane season:

* Know the hurricane risks in your area, as well as the storm surge history and elevation.

* Learn safe routes inland and the location of official shelters

* Ensure that enough non-perishable food and water supplies are on hand.

* Obtain and store materials, like plywood, necessary to secure your home.

* Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts. Trim trees and shrubbery of dead wood.

* Determine where to move your boat in an emergency.

* Individuals with special needs and others requiring more information should contact their local emergency management office.

In the event of a Hurricane Watch, people in the affected area should stay tuned to the radio and television, fuel and service family vehicles, tape/board/shutter all windows and door openings, wedge sliding glass doors, check for battery operated flashlights and portable radios, bring lawn furniture and other loose lightweight objects inside, and have extra cash on hand.

In the event of a Hurricane Warning, affected residents should stay tuned to the radio or television for official bulletins, complete preparation activities such as putting up storm shutters, storing loose objects, moving all valuables to upper floors, checking all battery-powered equipment (including radios, emergency cooking equipment), leave low-lying areas that may be swept away by high tides or waves, make arrangements for pets or leave food and water out for them in the event of an evacuation(shelters and hotels may not allow pets.)

In the event of an official evacuation order, residents should comply immediately and follow appropriate directions. Also, be sure to notify a friend or family member outside affected area of your evacuation plans.

In the event of an emergency, the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management will provide additional information. Also, a new feature tested last week by the weather channel is a scroll bar at the bottom of the screen that would show important updates and information continuously in the event of an emergency.