Officials Urge Residents to Prepare for Storm

Local officials are urging residents to prepare for the possibility of severe weather early next week. If Hurricane Sandy heads north as predicted by the National Weather Service, it will bring heavy rain and winds into Bucks County early next week. The forecast now shows rain starting Saturday and lasting through Tuesday.

NWS has not issued a severe weather alert for our area because the track of Sandy still remains uncertain. 

However, Newtown Emergency Management Coordinator Don Harris is encouraging residents to prepare. Harris posted several tips to Newtown Township's website.

Here is a summary:

• Secure all lawn furniture and other outdoor items that are not permanently secured.
• If you have a storm sewer inlet in front of your property, insure that it is clear of all debris for proper drainage. 
• Stock up on non-perishable food in the event of an extended power outage.
• Have a battery-operated radio available for local weather advisories along with non-rechargeable batteries, drinking water, medications and other necessary supplies.
• Anyone residing along the Neshaminy Creek should consider moving all belongings to upper levels of their homes prior to the arrival of the storm and be prepared to evacuate quickly if an evacuation order is given.
• If you have not been evacuated and conditions begin to rapidly deteriorate, stay in the center of your home away from windows and doors due to injuries from broken glass. 
• If evacuation is required, all property owners will be notified through the PA Ready Notify System, Local Government Television Channel 22 (Comcast) or Channel 40 (Verizon) and Local Radio Stations advising evacuation routes and evacuation shelter locations.