PARKS HELP NEW YORKERS PREPARE

With the City in full bloom, New Yorkers are emerging from their winter hibernation and flocking to the parks. This spring, the City's Parks & Recreation department is helping residents prepare as they enjoy the great outdoors. Stop by any Parks recreation center for a free copy of the Ready New York pocket guide. Pet owners can also find copies of the Ready New York for Pets guide at City dog runs.

• Learn more about Ready New York
• Find a recreation center near you
• Find a dog run near you
• Read the Tip of the Week online

NEVER SAY NEVER WHEN IT COMES TO SEVERE WEATHER

When it is sunny outside it is difficult to remember how dangerous weather can be, but don't be fooled: 90 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related. They account for around 500 deaths and nearly $14 billion in damages across the United States every year.

It is Severe Weather Awareness Week and OEM reminds New Yorkers to keep up with the forecasts. Specific hazards may require specifc plans. For example, avoid landline phones and electrical appliances during thunderstorms, as they can conduct electrical surges from lightning.

• Read more tips on preparing for severe weather
• Visit the National Weather Service's severe weather page
• Read the Tip of the Week online

KNOW WHEN TO ZONE OUT

In light of the Nor'easter that hit New York City this weekend, OEM encourages New Yorkers to find out if they live in a Hurricane Evacuation Zone. During large storms, the City may issue evacuation orders in low-lying, coastal neighborhoods. By using the Hurricane Zone Finder BEFORE an emergency strikes, residents can plan how to stay safe if their homes are vulnerable to flooding.

• Access OEM's Hurricane Zone Finder
• Make a Household Disaster Plan
• Read OEM Tip of the Week online

GET THE EFFAKs

It's tax time again, and while you are focused on your finances, OEM reminds you to update your Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK). After a disaster, insurance providers may request copies of tax returns before they respond to a claim. Store extra copies of these important documents in a safe place while finances are still fresh on your mind.

• Find out what else to keep in your Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK)(PDF)
• Learn more financial preparedness tips
• Read OEM Tip of the Week online

DO YOU HAVE THE POWER?

This week is New York Public Health Week, so OEM reminds you to protect yourselves against health emergencies. One such emergency can occur during a utilities disruption.

A power outage can be more than just uncomfortable for certain New Yorkers. It can be life-threatening. If you, friends, or family rely on life-sustaining medical equipment, make sure you have a 12-hour backup battery and register with your power provider. Con Edison (800-752-6633) and LIPA/Keyspan (800-490-0025) must be alerted to your condition, so they can provide special service in the event you lose power. You can download applications online, or call to receive one by mail.

• Visit Con Ed online
• Visit LIPA online
• Read OEM Tip of the Week online