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Preparing for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. Hurricanes do not have to make landfall in Virginia to cause damage. Heavy rains, strong winds, floods and damage to buildings, trees and cars can all accompany a hurricane. Be prepared! On Tuesday, May 22, at 2 p.m., join Marcelo Ferreira, community liaison with the Office of Emergency Management, for an online chat about hurricanes, how to prepare for hurricane season, Hurricane Preparedness Week May 25-31, and how to save money while shopping for emergency preparedness supplies during the annual Virginia Hurricane Sales Tax Holiday, May 25-31.

Marcelo Ferreira : Good afternoon and welcome to the "Preparing for Hurricane Season" Ask Fairfax! chat. Hurricane season is just around the corner, are you prepared? Learn how to take advantage of this years hurricane preparedness sales take holiday by stocking up on items for your emergency kit! I look forward to your questions.

Marcelo Ferreira : Fairfax County has created a Web page with all of the information supporting the Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem/outreach/hurricane_sales_tax_holiday.htm. On that page, you can find information about what items are included in the sales tax holiday and even a video with additional information.

Marcelo Ferreira : Every emergency kit should be customized to each individual, but there are basic items such as water, non-perishable food items, radio, flashlight and extra batteries that should be included in every kit. A full list of recommended items can be viewed at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem/prepare/kit.htm. Most items that are included in an emergency kit can be purchased during the sales tax holiday, including cellphone chargers, first-aid kits, duct tape, and even portable generators and power cords. Visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem/outreach/hurricane_sales_tax_holiday.htm for a list of eligible items. It's a great time to get prepared since hurricane season starts on June 1 and you can save money!

Anonymous User : what kind of supplies do we need? what can I buy during the holiday?

Marcelo Ferreira : See answer above.

Marcelo Ferreira : Thank you for taking the time to learn about the Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday this weekend. Don't forget to make an emergency kit for your office and vehicle! As you're developing your emergency kits remember to sign-up for the Community Emergency Alert Network to stay informed during a disaster - www.fairfaxcounty.gov/cean. The Fairfax County Emergency Blog is the best source for information from Fairfax County during an emergency - www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency/blog.