Municipalities urge caution as Earl progresses

With Hurricane Earl is strengthening in the Caribbean, local emergency response crews across the Island are getting ready to swing into action if necessary.

Hurricane Earl, the Category 3 whopper now strengthening in the Caribbean, is expected to swing east of LI, but just in case, municipalities are warning residents to prepare for the possibility that it could have a major impact here.

Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano said in a news release that residents should prepare an emergency kit packed with suppies and vital documents. The kit should have enough supplies for five days.

Here's a list of items to include:

*First aid kit. Pack a “how to” guide as well.
*Essential prescription and nonprescription items and medical information.
*Battery-powered flashlight and radio (or crank radio), extra batteries and a 12-hour glow stick.
*A change of clothes, plus rainwear, sturdy shoes and protective gloves for everyone.
*Personal items, eyeglasses and personal care items.
*Important documents in a waterproof container: drivers’ licenses, wills, birth/marriage certificates, insurance policies, deed or lease papers, recent tax returns, credit card and bank account
numbers, Social Security cards, passport and home inventory list
+Make sure you have special items for infants, elderly persons, pets or loved ones with special needs.

Additional hurricane information is available on the county Web site.

Meanwhile, Southampton Town issued a news release Monday, urging residents to think about extra supplies and securing yard and outdoor items.