Padavan Launches Disaster Preparedness Campaign

Senator Padavan

Noting that the Atlantic hurricane season is already underway, state Senator Frank Padavan reported that he is again partnering with local community supermarkets to increase public awareness to prepare for hurricanes and other natural disasters.

Padavan (R- C, Bellerose), whose district covers Northeast Queens, said that, in recognition of September being National Preparedness Month, he is teaming with Waldbaums, C- Town and Bravo stores to distribute free and important information to help consumers and residents build their own disaster preparedness kits.

"The images associated with Hurricane Katrina remain crystal clear in the minds of many in our community," Padavan said. "The lessons from Hurricane Katrina have shown that being appropriately prepared for when a massive storm hits is of the utmost importance. I urge everyone to read my 'Get Ready' brochure and build your own disaster preparedness kit today."

Padavan pointed out that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Web site had reported that an early season forecast predicted an 85 percent chance of an above normal hurricane season. That's a 5 percent increase from last year, the lawmaker said.

He added that the National Hurricane Center predicts that there could be 13 to 16 named storms, with the possibility of three to five major storms during the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season.

Padavan expressed gratitude to the local supermarkets who have partnered with him in his public awareness campaign. He said that, in addition to being distributed at local supermarkets, his "Get Ready" hurricane preparedness brochures are also available by calling 718-343-0255. For additional information, including a detailed list of items that should be included in a disaster preparedness kit, check his Web site at www.frankpadavan.com.- John Toscano