Top 5 Emergency Preparedness Tips for NYC Residents

New York City faces significant risk from hurricanes and tropical storms, with climate change increasing the frequency and intensity of these events. As a 20-year veteran of NYC Emergency Management, I've seen firsthand how proper preparation saves lives when storms hit our city.

These five essential tips will help you and your family stay safe during the 2025 hurricane season. From creating an emergency plan to knowing your evacuation zone, these practical steps can make all the difference when disaster strikes.

"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." — Benjamin Franklin

Here are the 5 most critical preparedness steps every NYC resident should take before hurricane season peaks:

Essential Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Know Your Evacuation Zone

Nearly 3 million New Yorkers live in hurricane evacuation zones. Don't wait until a storm hits to find out if you need to evacuate.

Action Steps:

Check your zone at NYC.gov/knowyourzone
Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home
Plan where you'll go if evacuated (friends/family outside zone or public shelter)

Pro Tip: Bookmark the NYC Hurricane Evacuation Zone Finder on your phone for quick access.

Build Your Emergency Kit

During major storms, you may need to shelter in place for 3+ days without power or running water.

Essentials to Include:

1 gallon water per person per day (3-day supply)
Non-perishable food (manual can opener!)
First aid kit and medications
Flashlight + extra batteries

Phone chargers + portable battery
Copies of important documents
Cash (ATMs may not work)
Blankets, hygiene items

Pro Tip: Store items in airtight plastic bins and check expiration dates every 6 months.

Create a Family Communication Plan

Cell networks often fail during disasters. Having a communication plan ensures you can reconnect with loved ones.

Plan Components:

Identify an out-of-state contact everyone will check in with
Establish meeting places near home and outside neighborhood
Practice your plan with all household members
Save emergency numbers in phones (311, 911, utilities)

Pro Tip: Teach children how to send text messages - they often work when calls don't.

Prepare Your Home

Simple precautions can prevent costly damage to your property during high winds and flooding.

Home Prep Checklist:

Clear gutters and drains
Secure or bring inside outdoor furniture
Cover windows with storm shutters or plywood

Know how to shut off utilities (gas, water, electricity)
Elevate valuables in flood-prone areas
Charge all devices before storm hits

Pro Tip: Take photos/video of your home contents now for insurance purposes.

Stay Informed

Timely, accurate information is your best defense during rapidly changing storm conditions.

Information Sources:

Sign up for Notify NYC emergency alerts (text/call/email)
Bookmark NYC.gov/severeweather
Follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter
Have a battery-powered NOAA weather radio
Monitor local news (1010 WINS, NY1)

Pro Tip: During storms, limit non-emergency calls to keep networks clear for first responders.

Emergency Contacts

Immediate Emergencies:

1 911 (Life-threatening emergencies)
2 311 (Non-emergency city services)

Utility Companies:

3 Con Edison: 1-800-75-CONED
4 National Grid: 1-718-643-4050

Note: Program these numbers into your phone now and write them down in case phones aren't working.

Final Preparedness Checklist

Hurricane season in New York City brings real risks, but being prepared significantly increases your safety and peace of mind. Use this final checklist to ensure you've covered all the essentials:

Before Hurricane Season:

Know your evacuation zone
Build emergency kits (home, car, work)
Create family communication plan
Review insurance coverage
Sign up for emergency alerts

When a Storm Approaches:

Monitor official weather updates
Charge all devices + backup batteries
Secure outdoor items
Withdraw some cash
Fill vehicle gas tanks
Follow evacuation orders if issued

Remember:

Preparation is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones during hurricane season. Take these steps today - don't wait until a storm is forecast. The time and effort you invest now could make all the difference when severe weather strikes New York City.

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