Mayor Harkins Signs Declaration of Emergency, Suggests Some Residents Evacuate

Editor's note: The following is a press release from the office of the mayor.

With Hurricane Irene forecasted to heavily impact the area this coming weekend, the Town of Stratford is prepared to implement its emergency operations plan.

Mayor John A. Harkins has been meeting with all pertinent personnel in preparations for the storm, and he has signed a declaration of emergency in order to allow town government to have maximum flexibility to protect its citizenry.

“This storm is not to be taken lightly. Forecasters are united in their belief that Hurricane Irene presents a significant risk of potentially severe flooding and wind damage in Stratford. I am urging all residents to take every conceivable precaution and to use common sense in determining the best actions to protect their families and property,” said Mayor Harkins.

In addition to declaring the state of emergency, the following actions have been taken to respond to the forecasted hurricane conditions:

Effective immediately, residents along the immediate shoreline and in low-lying areas that have a tendency to flood are requested to evacuate and seek higher ground. At this point, evacuations are voluntary.

A town-operated shelter will be opened at Bunnell High School at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27. Stratford residents without a place to go for refuge may go to Bunnell to ride out the storm. Residents with medical needs are encouraged to seek help at area hospitals.    

A town-wide parking ban will go into effect at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27. Residents are asked to move their vehicles off the road to allow emergency personnel to respond as quickly as possible where necessary throughout town. School parking lots (other than Bunnell High School) are available to residents who do not have driveways, etc.

The town’s Emergency Operation Center, located at the Fire Department's headquarters on Main Street, will be fully opened and operational at noon on Saturday, Aug. 27.

Residents are asked to monitor the Town website, print and electronic local media outlets, local radio stations, and to pay attention to any Reverse 911 calls that may be placed to households with further instructions and information.

Click here to sign up for the free service offered by the town.

Mayor Harkins is also asking residents to be mindful of their pets and neighbors while preparing for the storm. Those who are in the area of catch basins can assist Public Works by keeping them clear of debris in advance of the storm.

“Our town government is prepared to help out during and after the hurricane in every way it can be,” Harkins added. “We are asking all residents to do their part as we ride this storm out together.”