St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office monitoring pending
inclement weather associated with Sally

Preparing for hurricane season, which runs June 1 through Nov. 30, should be something residents in our area are accustomed to doing, but St. Bernard Sheriff James Pohlmann wants to remind residents to make preparations today and be ready to implement plans for their family in anticipation of inclement weather expected from tropical system Sally.

The Sheriff said residents should use today to secure their homes and pick up any loose items in and around their property that could become projectiles during heavy winds. Residents should go over their checklists of essential items and make sure they have what they need.

Residents also should stay informed by listening to weather updates and heed the advice of local officials in the event of any potential evacuation orders. By preparing now, Sheriff Pohlmann said, you can avoid endangering your family and first responders once the weather deteriorates.

“Have things like flashlights and batteries, bottled water, and medications on hand where you can easily find them if leaving becomes necessary,” the Sheriff said.

Anticipating the needs of older relatives and deciding what to do with pets if you had to leave, also are things to consider. The Louisiana ASPCA says pet-owners should never leave them behind when they evacuate because the animals would be at the mercy of the storm.

With that in mind, Sheriff Pohlmann said, the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office is making its own preparations and is ready to respond to conditions brought on by Sally.

The Sheriff’s Office will have extra manpower on patrol to monitor weather conditions throughout the duration of tropical system Sally.

With heavy rainfall, storm surge and strong winds expected throughout the coming several days, Sheriff Pohlmann said deputies will be monitoring roadways throughout the parish for flooding and any other potential issues associated with the inclement weather.

Residents are reminded of the expected tidal flooding that is common in the far eastern end of the parish and asked to stay clear of that area.

The Sheriff also reminds residents to slow down on residential streets that have standing water as to avoid making any high wakes that may impact neighboring homes.

Residents are reminded that a parish ordinance makes it illegal for vehicles to push water into homes and businesses.

Anyone who speeds down a flooded street endangering the property of others can be fined up to $500, the Sheriff said.

To report any non-emergency issues associated with the inclement weather, call (504) 271-2501. Residents who are in danger or in need of immediate assistance should call 911.

The Sheriff said the department’s hurricane plan includes several boats at the ready, and a high-water truck that is ideal for rescue or to haul personnel or equipment to respond to the storm.

In the event of an ordered evacuation, Sheriff Pohlmann said, officers will make extra patrols through neighborhoods, as well as by boat along waterways if necessary, to protect property in the parish.

“We don’t want residents making a bad decision to stay simply out of concern over a possible burglar,’’ the Sheriff said.

Residents are encouraged to heed the advice of local officials when it comes to deciding to evacuate or ride out a storm.

“It reduces the need for search and rescue operations if there was actual flooding in a storm,” the Sheriff said, “and it reduces the possibility of the loss of life.”

As a reminder, here is a checklist of items you will want to have on hand in a basic emergency supply kit:

Water: one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days

Three-day supply of non-perishable food

Can opener

Eating utensils

First Aid kit

Cash

Several complete changes of clothing and footwear per person

Cell phones and chargers

Bedding or sleeping bags

Fire extinguisher (small canister ABC type)

Bleach (no lemon or other additives)

Mosquito repellent

Tarp, rope, and duct tape

Toiletries including toilet paper

Battery-operated radio and extra batteries

Flashlights and extra batteries

Hand sanitizer

Face masks

With COVID-19 in mind, remember to have on hand enough face masks and hand sanitizer for each family member.

For families with infants, remember bottles, formula, diapers, wipes, powdered milk and medications.

For adults and others with special needs, don’t forget medicine, such as heart and high blood pressure medication, insulin, prescription drugs, denture needs, contact lenses and supplies and extra eye glasses.

For pets, bring their ID tag, a photo of your pet(s) for identification purposes, a 7-day supply of food, water, medications, and your veterinarian’s phone number. Don’t leave your pet behind. Transport pets in secure pet carriers and keep pets on leashes. Most emergency shelters do not admit pets. Check with hotels in safe locations and ask if you can bring your pet.

Entertainment, especially for children, is important as well. Pack books for adult readers and for children, board games and/or other games that do not require batteries or electricity.

Also, remember to bring your important records in a waterproof, portable container. Include insurance papers or account numbers, an inventory of household goods, checks and credit cards, family records such as birth, marriage and death certificates, and important telephone numbers.

Taking photos of your home and its contents before you leave is also a good idea for insurance purposes.

Sheriff Pohlmann hopes we don’t see the worst from Sally, but it’s best to keep a watchful eye and think smart.

“Let’s hope for the best, and prepare for the worst,” the Sheriff said. “Stay safe.”


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