First Selectman Mike Tetreau announced today that following a press release recently issued by Governor Dannel Malloy, which stated that the Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1, 2014 to November 30, 2014 with the possible principal threat period for Connecticut occurring between mid-August and mid-October, the Fairfield community is encouraged to take necessary precautions and be prepared. First Selectman Tetreau said, “While we hope no hurricanes or major storms come our way, it is always important for our residents to be proactive and be prepared as much as possible. Not only do I recommend the public starts now in following tips issued by the Governor and the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, but I also encourage anyone living or working in Fairfield to sign up for the Town’s CodeRED alert system so you may be informed and updated on storms or emergencies. To sign up or update your information, the public can visit www.fairfieldct.org and click on CodeRed which is located under “Popular Links” on the Town’s homepage or call 203-254-4830 for personal assistance.

The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s three simple preparedness steps include putting together an emergency kit, making a plan and staying informed. Governor Malloy offers the following preparedness tips that include:

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

• One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

• At least 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

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• A manual can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

• Local maps

• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger.

Family Emergency Plan:

• Identify an out-of town contact. It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than

to call across town, so an out-of-town contact may be in a better position to communicate

among separated family members

• Be sure every member of your family knows the phone number and has a cell phone,

coins, or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact. If you have a cell phone,

program that person(s) as “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) in your phone. If you are in an

accident, emergency personnel will often check your ICE listings in order to get a hold of

someone you know. Make sure to tell your family and friends that you’ve listed them as

emergency contacts

• Teach family members how to use text messaging. Text messages can often get around

network disruptions when a phone call might not be able to get through

• Subscribe to alert services. Go to www.ct.gov/ctalert to register for emergency alerts.

For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit www.ct.gov/hurricane or www.ready.gov.