Dover AFB Hurricane Preparation 2014 Published June 5, 2014 By Courtesy report DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- June 1 marks the beginning of the 2014 hurricane season in the U.S., kicking off six months of the threat of a Hurricane possibly affecting the Dover Air Force Base area. Dover AFB experienced Super storm Sandy in 2012 and Hurricane Irene in 2011. Sandy caused minor damage to Dover, but affected surrounding areas with extensive damage. Irene caused widespread damage across the region and forced the mandatory evacuation of more than 200,000 area residents, including Dover AFB personnel and their families. In the event of an approaching storm, residents may or may not be ordered to evacuate. Whether riding the storm out or evacuating, having an emergency kit can be the difference between life and death, especially when hunkering down through the storm. Essential items in an emergency kit include: · Water: at least one gallon daily per person for at least three days · Food: at least enough for three days (unperishable) · Battery-powered or hand crank radio, and a NOAA weather radio with tone alerts and extra batteries · Flashlight · First aid kit · Clothing, rain coats, boots · Cash · Toiletries, hygiene items and moisture wipes · Important documents in a waterproof container (insurance) · keep a basic tool set with you during the storm · Pet care items, crates, food · Special items for babies and elderly Riding it out: Depending on the severity of the storm, officials may not order mandatory evacuations, in which case you may decide to remain and shelter at home. You can shelter at home or in a public shelter. Here is a list of shelters in Kent County, Dover, De. - Hurricane shelters for Eagle Heights/Family Housing include DAFB Middle School, Caesar Rodney Junior and High School, and Dover High School. -Hurricane shelters for Eagle Meadows Family Housing include Allen Frear Elementary School, Caesar Rodney Junior and High school and Dover High School. -The primary emergency broadcast and alerting stations are 94.7 FM and 1410 AM for Kent County; 97.7 FM and 1450 AM for New Castle County; and 93.7 FM and 900 AM for Sussex County. Sheltering at home: -Secure your outside property, i.e. lawn chairs and anything not anchored to the ground. -If your home does not have permanent storm shutters, board windows with 5/8-inch plywood. -Consider purchasing flood insurance. -Locate the safest room in your home for the hurricane. -If you decide to seek refuge in a public shelter you must take your emergency kit. While public shelters provide basic necessities, most do not provide cots, bedding, infant items or items for those with special needs. Evacuating: -Leave early and avoid traffic delays. (If military, you must have Wing Commander authorization/order to evacuate prior to leaving). -Stay with nearby family who live outside of storm surge areas. Hotels are also available but must be booked early. -Listen to local weather reports. Stay updated on current and developing conditions. Key Phone Numbers 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs: (302) 677-3372 Base Informational Line: (302) 677-BASE (2273) 436th Airlift Wing Fire Department: (302) 677-4420 Law Enforcement Desk: (302) 677-6664 Damage Reporting Line: (302) 677-3352 Emergency: 911