HURCON 3 declared at Keesler

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  • 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.