BRIDGEPORT, CT (August 25, 2011) – City officials are urging residents to begin taking precautions as Hurricane Irene, the first hurricane to threaten the East Coast of the United States in three years, makes its way through the Atlantic currently on course to hit Connecticut and Long Island Sound over the weekend.Mayor Finch urged residents to begin making preparations now in advance of the storm and not wait until Saturday or Sunday when high winds and heavy rain could make travel difficult.  Below are some tips for residents and business owners. More information is available on the City of Bridgeport’s Emergency Management webpage at www.bridgeportct.gov

• One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• A three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• A whistle to signal for help
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger