“Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane.” That’s the message the Red Cross and local emergency officials sent out Monday at a Smith Point press conference to urge Long Islanders to get ready for the upcoming tropical storm season.
Right now is the time to get a preparedness checklist at RedCross.org and take the steps necessary to protect life and limb from storms they say are inevitable. Also, sign up for emergency notifications at Smart911.com and get the Smart911 app on your phone.
Rudy Sunderman, Suffolk County’s Commissioner of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services, delivered the morning’s central message: preparedness isn’t optional — it’s essential. “Our coastal location means we are always at risk for tropical systems, and early planning is the best protection,” Sunderman said. “Hurricane preparedness comes down to three essential steps: Be Prepared. Be Informed. Know Your Zone.”
Sunderman stressed the importance of having a “To-Go Kit” ready now, before storms are on the radar. That means enough food, water, medication, batteries, flashlights, pet supplies, and personal necessities to last at least several days. He also emphasized that evacuation plans should be reviewed ahead of time — not as a storm is making landfall. “Know how to safely exit not only your home but your neighborhood,” he warned.
The commissioner also encouraged all Suffolk residents to create a Smart911 profile. “Smart911 gives our first responders critical details about you and your family while also allowing you to receive vital information,” Sunderman said. Residents can also text “SuffolkAlerts” to 67283 to receive real-time emergency notifications directly from the county.
Hurricane zones were another key focus. Suffolk County has four official evacuation zones: A, B, C, and D. Sunderman urged residents to check the Suffolk County website now to determine which zone they live in. “Don’t wait for a storm to be named — take the time to prepare now,” he said.
Jose Dominguez, CEO of the Red Cross Long Island Chapter, echoed that warning. He said the Red Cross has preparedness checklists, mobile apps, and tips for building safe family communication plans in the event of a disaster. “Preparedness starts at home, with you, your family, and even your pets,” Dominguez said. “We’re here to help you make a plan.”
Mastic Beach Fire Department Commissioner Bill Biondi shared a sobering reminder from experience. “Having been through Hurricane Sandy and some other pretty devastating storms, I know what can happen to the South Shore,” Biondi said. “People need to be prepared and pay attention. If the order is given to evacuate, please follow it. If you stay behind, you’re putting your life at risk, as well as the emergency responders who will have to come get you.”
“The water is coming sooner or later,” noted Senator Dean Murray. “You must be prepared. Don’t wait for a named hurricane; we’ve had three devastating storms over the last few years that didn’t have names.”
Also attending the preparedness event was Brookhaven Councilwoman Karen Dunne-Kesnig, along with representatives from Congressman Andrew Garbarino’s office, Suffolk Parks, Long Island Rail Road, PSEG, Haugland Group, New York Emergency Services, and Red Cross volunteers. “Our message couldn’t be any clearer: get ready for the storms now while you still have a chance,” warned Assemblyman Joe DeStefano.