As Tropical Storm Francine approaches and is expected to intensify, the City of Harahan, in collaboration with state officials, has declared a state of emergency. Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents while securing our city's infrastructure. Although we’ve faced storms before, each event is unique, and it’s crucial to prepare appropriately.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe:
1. Shelter-in-Place
Act Early: Given the uncertainty around the storm's timing and track, please shelter-in-place as soon as possible on Wednesday. This will help keep you safe and give emergency services room to operate.
Review Your Plans: Make sure your family has a clear plan. Review safety procedures and ensure everyone knows what to do.
2. Post-Storm Safety
Avoid Immediate Clean-Up: Most fatalities in the Parish occurred after Hurricane Ida, often due to hasty clean-up efforts. Please stay indoors until it's safe.
Emergency Response: Our teams will begin assessing and addressing damage as soon as the storm passes. We have engineers, disaster mitigation experts, and service providers ready to respond.
Street Clearance: We'll clear debris and assess damage promptly. Please be patient and avoid unnecessary trips outside.
3. Prepare for Flooding
Street Flooding: Significant rain is expected. Avoid driving or walking through flooded areas, as it can be dangerous.
Parking and Debris: If possible, don’t park on the street, and refrain from piling debris into the streets or over storm drains.
Tree Safety: Saturated ground may lead to fallen trees. Have a plan in place if a tree falls near your home.
4. Power Outages
Generator Safety: If you use a portable generator, operate it outside in a well-ventilated area away from your home.
Downed Power Lines: Do not touch any downed power lines.
Power Updates: Harahan has daily communication with Entergy to monitor and address storm-related issues.
5. Traffic and Driving Safety
Exercise Caution: Roads are expected to be hazardous due to flooding and debris. If you must drive, do so with extreme caution.
Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not drive through flooded streets. Even shallow water can be dangerous, and hidden hazards may be present.
Follow Road Closures: Adhere to any road closures or detours to avoid dangerous conditions or obstructing emergency services.
Visibility: Ensure your vehicle’s lights are on and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Reduced visibility and slick roads increase the risk of accidents.
6. Sandbags and Debris Management
Sandbags: We are providing sandbags for residents. There is a 10-bag limit per household. Please bring your own shovel and fill the bags yourself.
Garbage Collection: Regular garbage collection will occur on Thursday. Secure your garbage can to prevent loss; you will be charged for any missing cans.
7. Stay Informed and Safe
Communication: We will provide updates through our social media platforms. Restoration of cable and internet is not a priority, but we will share any significant updates from providers.
Situational Awareness: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can impair your judgment and safety.
Check on Neighbors: Look out for each other. We are all in this together.
Thank you for your cooperation and patience. Please stay safe, follow these guidelines, and keep an eye out for updates as we navigate through this storm.
Stay Safe, Harahan!
For more information and updates, follow us on our social media channels.
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