Mineola, NY- Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi announced today that May 16-22 has been designated as "Hurricane Preparedness Week" in Nassau County and urged residents to be prepared for the upcoming 2004 hurricane and coastal storm season.

"Given our location as an island left vulnerable to the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island is very susceptible to the powerful and destructive nature of hurricanes," said County Executive Suozzi. "It is important for every Nassau County resident to be prepared for the upcoming storm season."

The Hurricane/Coastal storm season in New York State traditionally begins on June 1st and runs until November 30th. These storms threaten not only the coastal communities, but all parts of Nassau County. County Executive Suozzi also stressed that residents be aware of local weather conditions by listening to National Weather Service broadcasts on NOAA Weather Radio in addition to local television and radio stations.

Residents can follow the following suggestions to prepare for hurricane season:

• Be aware of their hurricane and storm risks in their areas
• Learn their communities' posted evacuation routes
• Make arrangements on where family pets may go in the event of a storm, as pets are not allowed in shelters
• Have a first-aid kit available in the home, which should include a battery operated radio, spare batteries and flashlights
• Store materials such as plywood to properly secure homes and businesses before a storm is forecasted
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts
• Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed of dead wood
• Determine where to move boats in the event of an emergency

The following websites can be used for further information:

• Nassau County Office of Emergency Management- www.co.nassu.ny.us/OEM/home.html
• American Red Cross-www.redcross.org
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) www.fema.gov
• Nassau County-www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/health/index.html

"Taking precautions now, before the storm season arrives, will ensure that every resident is well-protected and prepared in the event that a hurricane hits Nassau County this summer," said the County Executive.