Bloomberg to NYC: Stay Inside

As Hurricane Irene descends upon New York City, Mayor Michael Bloomberg offered up some last minute safety tips in a Saturday night press conference: 

•  A tornado watch in effect to 5 a.m.
•  The time for evacuation is over. The mayor recommends that residents go inside, and stay inside until conditions improve.
• First responders will work non-stop through the night to ensure that destruction is dealt with promptly.
• Move away as far as possible from glass windows, which could be shattered by debris. The risk of this is increased in high rise buildings.
• Make sure windows and doors leading outside are closed. Turn off all propane tanks.
• Two kayakers who entered surf off Staten Island capsized earlier this evening, and were rescued by NYPD Harbor Officers after 30 minutes of floating. Such risky behavior puts not only you, but first responders in danger. Avoid it. 
• There is a chance that power company Con-Ed will shut down parts of the grid in the event of severe flooding.  
• Put together emergency supplies (see a list of items you should have .)
• If you’re using candles, be cautious. Don’t leave them unattended.
• Charge your phones and other mobile devices.
• If the power goes out, call 311. This will help the city identify areas without power. 
• 911 should be used only for emergencies. Otherwise, do not tie up 911 services.
• For updates throughout the storm, go to NYC.gov 
• Stay inside through Sunday morning. Do not be tempted to go outside, even to have a look around.