Bridgeport recognized for being "storm ready"

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) -- When wild weather hits in your city or town will officials be prepared, and will you be safe?

One major Connecticut city that is no stranger to devastating storms is now getting national recognition for being "storm ready," but just what does it take to get that honor?

Bridgeport has been recognized by the National Weather Service as a storm-ready community, meaning the city has a strong plan in place to handle hazardous weather and to communicate important safety information to the public.

"They're looking after their safety and it is essential to be a better prepared community to save someone's life or minimize damage to property people own," said Gary Conte, National Weather Service.

Bridgeport is now the 8th storm-ready community in CT. In order to get the distinction, the National Weather Service and state had to review the city's emergency plans and look at how prepared it is for a natural or man-made disaster.

"We had to ensure that we had the capability of alerting our community in the event of an incident whether through the media, reverse 911, social media," said Scott Appleby, Director of Bridgeport Emergency Management.

What it means for Bridgeport residents, he says, is that they'll be better warned and protected when the next storm hits. It's not just about safety, but saving money.

"Hopefully with a lot of this information we can start to decrease those insurance rates and hopefully have a resident and business save on those insurance policies," said Appleby.

Remember if you lose power during a storm and you can't check your internet or watch your tv for updates, you can always use your cell phone and follow News 8 on Twitter and Facebook for the latest updates you need to know.