South Padre Island: July 26, 2008: 1 PM: UPDATE: Power to be Restored in 3-6 Days, Island Access Remains Restricted

Post-Hurricane Health, Service, Safety Information for South Padre Island

UTILITIES 

-AEP urges the community to unplug or place washers, dryers and other major appliances and electronic equipment like televisions, VCRs and computers, in the off position. Turn them on one at a time when power is restored. If several large appliances start up at once when power is restored, they may overload your home’s electric circuits. Again power is expected to be restored in 3-6 days.

-If you use a portable generator, DO NOT plug the generator into your circuit box. Portable generators “back-feed” electricity up the line and risk the lives of repair workers and the public. Plug appliances directly into the generator.

-The boil-water advisory has been lifted. Water is safe for consumption.

SUPPLIES

-State emergency officials will continue to distribute supplies to the South Padre Island community at the Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark until power is restored. Hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Supplies include bottled water, bagged ice, food and hygiene packets.

-The Salvation Army is also distributing hot meals at the Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark.

-Both Brownsville Home Depot stores have donated charcoal, 5-gallon buckets, bleach, empty 5-gallon gas cans, brooms, mops, extension cords, paper towels and flashlights free to residents.

TRASH DISPOSAL

-Allied Waste is operating its normal residential pick-up schedule. An additional site has been set-up at Island Baptist Church, 107 Mesquite, for trash drop-off. Debris may be placed for pick-up at residential curbs. An additional debris drop-off site is the north parking lot of the Convention Centre.

MENTAL HEALTH

-Post-trauma mental health counseling is available at the Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark.

RESTAURANTS/FOOD

-Restaurants now open have been fully inspected by SPI health inspectors for compliance.

-Residents are strongly urged to re-stock perishable food supplies with fresh product.

MOSQUITOES

-The Town of South Padre Island will continue to spray for mosquito control due to standing water.

STANDING WATER

-The Town of South Padre Island has administered mosquito-control tablets to standing water.

-The community is urged to stay away from standing water, and speak with a physician if in contact with standing water that may contain sewage.

SHELTERS

-Two shelters located in Port Isabel with food and supplies: Baptist Children Family Services, 215 Yturria; Port Isabel Community Center, 213 Yturria.

FEMA

-General information on Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 1-800-621-FEMA.