HURCON 3 declared at Keesler Published Aug. 27, 2012 By 020812 KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Hurricane Condition 3 has been declared as of 3 a.m. Aug. 27. This means tropical storm Isaac is predicted to bring destructive winds of 58 MPH or greater by 9 p.m. Aug. 28. While the commander has recommended a voluntary evacuation of all military dependents, a mandatory evacuation order has not been given at this time. Also, Mississippi Power has confirmed power will remain on base-wide unless the storm takes down a transmission line to the base. To prepare for the storm, all personnel should take the following actions: During HURCON 3, personnel living in the dormitories should: · Store all personal equipment in lockers and drawers. · Board up windows with wooden panels · Unplug electrical equipment and turn off lights. · Close all doors, but leave them unlocked. · Move furniture to walls opposite windows. · Tie down or relocate equipment, motorcycles, trashcans, signs, etc. People living off-base and in base housing should: · Brief family members on their responsibilities. Review actions to take if evacuation to shelter is necessary. · Keep your radio and television on for information on the status of the storm. · Check your supply of food that can be eaten without cooking. · Stock the following items and have them easily accessible: · Flashlight, extra batteries, candles/lighter. · Transistor radio, extra batteries. · At least three-days worth of prescription medication, water and food · First aid kit, insecticides, insect repellents, disinfectants, water purification tablets and snake bite kits. · Fire extinguisher, two to three buckets of sand. · Tool kit and hardware. · Boards for windows, plastic bags to cover any window breakage. · As much as possible, ensure mobile homes are securely tied down. · Secure objects in open areas that could come loose or blown away, such as trashcans, swings, etc. · Fill car tank with gasoline. · Boat protection: Store small boats in enclosed shelter. If stored outdoors, remove any loose gear and securely tie the boat down. All personnel should: · Board or tape windows. Plan to brace doors securely. · Stack furniture, rugs, linen, etc., to minimize possible water damage. · Have flashlights within easy reach. · Inventory and take photographs and/or video of personal belongings to facilitate potential insurance claims. For more information on hurricane preparation visit www.keesler.af.mil/hurricaneinfo.asp or call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Watch for updates on www.keesler.af.mil and www.facebook.com/keeslerafb.