Tropical Storm Cindy is a reminder for Mississippians to plan ahead this Hurricane Season. The storm flooded more than 350 streets and took down 30 trees on the Gulf Coast. Help may not be there when you want it.
Mississippi Emergency Management's Lee Smithson tells people to treat every storm as if it could kill them. He says have an evacuation plan and share it with family. Those in low lying areas should evacuate ahead of storms. Smithson says whether people go to a shelter or stay at home, be self-sufficient for 72 hours. He says that includes having some cash, because if there's no power, ATMs won't work. Smithson says have one gallon of water per person, per day, and non-perishable food.
"So have plenty of food, water for your family. Take care of your pets because otherwise you're relying on government officials to come in and help you out and it's a vary resource constrained environment. We can't get to everyone immediately," said Smithson.
Smithson says ensure the disabled and elderly are taken care of. Jim Craig is with the state department of health. He recommends saving water now.
"And if you can right now you can take the opportunity to fill empty jugs or empty containers with water," said Craig.
Craig says ahead of storms sanitize sinks and tubs with bleach, rinse them and fill with clean water. He also says identify potential dangers at home before evacuating, such as turning off the electric power in case the storm downs power lines. Bridgette Wiggins with the state attorney general's office, is reminding people to keep a flashlight and batteries on hand along with first aid supplies.
"Make sure you have your medicine. Also make sure you have a radio so that you can keep informed about what's going on and of course batteries," said Wiggins.
Mississippians can contact their local emergency management office to find the nearest shelters.
