Preparing for Hurricane Season. First up, Henri.
In addition to all the things we think about to prepare our homes in preparation for a hurricane, there are things to do in the landscape as well. Consider the following:
Batten down the hatches: Do a quick check for gardening tools or other objects that may fly during high winds: container plants, hanging baskets, tools, lawn furniture, garden art, compost bins, swings, tables and chairs, toys, bicycles, bird feeders, wind chimes, barbecues sets & pits, trash cans, playhouses, and pet enclosures. Loose objects may become deadly projectiles during hurricane-force winds. One article suggested the use of heavy bags of mulch to block water flow of storm surges or flooding. Easier to put in place than the traditional sandbags.
Harvest vegetables & protect our flower beds: Harvest all the vegetables you can from your garden and protect plantings as best you can. High winds may level the gardens. Oh, and if you can, visit our local farms and stock up. It is likely they too have harvested what they can, and the selection will be magnificent.
Trees: Young trees are vulnerable to blowing over in high winds. Check recently planted trees to make sure they are still staked. Make sure that the stakes are driven deep into the ground and the ties are strong and secure. If you have removed the stakes from trees planted in the past few years, consider re-staking them in preparation for a storm to prevent damage from heavy winds.
Additionally, you may or may not have heard but the Town of Easton provides resources when the power goes out as follows:
Water at Town Hall
The Senior center will be opened if needed for shelter and/or cooling. Location 660 Morehouse Rd.
Showers are available at Joel Barlow High School.
There will be a charging station outside the police station (lower level of Town Hall) for people to charge their phones
To learn more about Town resources and emergency preparedness visit https://www.eastonct.gov/emergency-info. Not an Easton resident? Check your local Town site for info and resources.
Please do continue this conversation should you have additional ideas on how to care for plants and protect our gardens. It is a good time to reach out to friends and neigbors, especially those who may feel isolated and in need should we lose power. Please reach out as needed.
Let’s hope this storm moves out and does not hit us head on! For those interested in tracking it, here is the link to the NOAA site: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ . Click on the icon for “Henri” and it brings you to the latest trajectory with forecasts.
Stay safe!