Hurricane Florence: Fairfax City Warns Danger Still Exists

FAIRFAX, VA—Officials in Fairfax are warning residents not to take lightly recent reports that Hurricane Florence has become a Category 3 storm and is tracking more to the south than it did the past couple of days. In short: There's still a risk factor for the area.

From the city: "While Hurricane Florence’s path may not impact our region as severely as originally forecast, it’s always a great idea to stay vigilant — for this storm and others to follow. Here’s a quick storm guide for city residents and businesses."

First and foremost, always check these sources for the latest city information:

• FairfaxVA.gov (Look for the information on the home and NEW section)
• Cityscreen-12 (latest news update on the TV station’s scroll, available on cable television and on the city website)
• Twitter: @CityofFairfaxVa
• Facebook: @CityofFairfaxVa
• Fairfax City Alert

(Stay on top of all the latest Hurricane Florence news with our free, real-time news alerts, find your local Patch here. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app; download the free Patch Android app here. And like Patch on Facebook!)

Q: What should I do to prep for the storm?

• Park off-street (in driveways and designated parking lots/areas) when possible to allow vehicles managing roads and debris efficient access to public roads.
• Secure outdoor items or store them safely when high winds are predicted.
• Stay charged — keep electronic items, such as mobile phones, laptops, and other handheld or mobile devices, fully charged in case of power outages.
• Bring pets indoors — keep them safe and calm.
• Review your resources for debris removal and unexpected, urgent services you may need for your home (such as electricians, plumbers, construction services). Check with neighbors and community leaders for suggestions.

Q: How do I get sandbags to prevent flooding?

In response to forecasted heavy rain and the potential for flooding, the City of Fairfax will have limited quantities of sandbags available at the City Property Yard, 3410 Pickett Road, for pickup.
There is a limit of 10 bags per residential or business address. Proof of residency or business ownership (such as a driver’s license or utility bill) in the city must be provided. Sandbags should be discarded with yard waste at curbside after the rain event, and should not be disposed of with normal trash or recycling.

Q: What happens if my power goes out?

Report power outages to Dominion Energy by calling 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) or visit the Dominion Energy Outage Center, which also features power outage safety and preparation information.

(Note: Sometimes, Dominion Energy will come out to address power-line issues by clearing a tree… and the power still may not come back on for some time.)

Q: What are the rules regarding generators?

When using generators, keep them outside for safety purposes. Be mindful of neighbors and noise (generators are subject to city noise ordinances.)
Note: cold and frozen items will remain safe for hours in a closed refrigerator and freezer; access these appliances only when necessary.

Q: What should I do if a water main breaks?

Report or monitor water main breaks to Fairfax Water by calling 703-698-5800 (after hours: 703-698-5613) or visit the Fairfax Water Notification page to report or monitor water main breaks and service.

Q: What should I do if a tree or limb falls down and is a hazard?

You may call Police Department dispatch if tree or limb poses a danger or is blocking a city road: 703-385-7924 (non-emergency).

Click here to download a flyer with this information.

MORE HURRICANE COVERAGE:

• Hurricane Florence Update: Storm Veers Away From VA
• Hurricane Florence: Fairfax County Urges Residents To Prepare
• Hurricane Florence: Travel Alerts Issued For VA Airports
• Hurricane Florence: Emergency Kit, Insurance Info To Know In VA
• Hurricane Florence: How VA Pet Owners Can Protect Furry Friends
• Keep Your Baby Safe During Hurricane Flo: Here's How

Image via City of Fairfax

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