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Tropical Storm Francine is forecast to hit somewhere along the Texas or Louisiana coast Wednesday evening, and it's already changing some plans in Rapides Parish.
Here's a list of events that either have been cancelled or rescheduled. The list will be updated as more information is received. If you need to add to this list, send your information to news@thetowntalk.com.
Cancellations or rescheduled events:
The 2024 Perfect Fit Foundation Pancake Breakfast is being moved to Thursday, Oct. 17.
Prepare now: Louisiana placed in 'crosshairs' of likely Hurricane Francine landfall this week
Storm tracker: Latest details, projected path of Tropical Storm Francine, other systems in Atlantic
Officials are urging residents to prepare now for the storm and the issues it could cause, like flooding. Companies like Cleco were using social media on Monday to remind people to get ready.
Cleco storm tips:
Make sure you have flashlights, a battery-powered radio and extra batteries.
Have a list of important phone numbers, including family contacts.
Fully charge cellphones and other devices.
Make sure you have essential medications or supplies for those with special needs.
If you must operate a generator, make sure it is outdoors. Plug appliances directly into generators with grounded extension cords. Do not plug a generator into a wall outlet.
Report downed power lines by calling 911, 1-800-622-6537 or your local utility. Always assume downed power lines are live, and stay away from them.
If you are threatened by rising flood waters, turn your home's electricity off at the main breaker and evacuate until the flood waters have receded.
The Rapides Parish School District and Louisiana State University of Alexandria both remain open. Facebook posts made by both entities state they are monitoring the situation and will make decisions on any closures at the appropriate time.
Rapides Regional Medical Center has issued tips for cancer patients, expecting and new mothers.
And don't forget about your pets when preparing for hurricanes. FEMA has a list of suggestions that you should consider or tailor to your own situation.
Pet tips:
Keep at least a three-day supply of water and food in a waterproof container.
If you intend to board your pets, make sure you bring any medications and medical records to show current vaccinations, as well as leashes, collars and/or harnesses with their rabies tags.
Have important papers, like registration, adoption and vaccination documents. If your pet is microchipped, be sure to update your contact information with the registry.
Have a first-aid kit, as well as any toys, treats or bedding.
Have a crate or pet carrier, in case you need to evacuate. Include litter and litter boxes, cleaning supplies and plastic bags.
Have photos of you with your pets in case you become separated to help establish ownership or share for a search.
Self-serve locations for sandbags already are available in Rapides Parish. Some sites, denoted by asterisks, have sandbags already filled for the elderly and disabled.
Sandbag sites:
Alpine Fire Department stations #2, Lions Club Road, and #3, 3710 Rigolette Road.
Ball Fire Department Station #2, 5503 Pinebrook Trace.
Boyce Fire Department Station #3, Mayo Street.
Cotile Fire Department Station #1, 55 Parker Road.
Cheneyville Fire Department, Town Hall/Klock Street.
Deville Fire Department Station #4, 1244 La. Highway 115.
Echo-Poland Fire Department Station #1, 9883 La. Highway 1 South.
England Airpark Fire Department, 1329 Billy Mitchell Blvd.
Flatwoods Fire Department Station #1, 2501 La. Highway 8.
Forest Hill Fire Department, behind Forest Hill Academy Gym/Blue Lake Road.
Glenmora Fire Department Station #1, 10th Avenue at U.S. Highway 165.
Holiday Village Fire Department Station #1, 5400 La. Highway 28 East.
Lecompte Fire Department Station #1, 2501 U.S. Highway 71 South.
Oak Hill Fire Department Station #1, 261 Havens Road, and Station #4, 16 Morrison Road.
Plainview Fire Department Station #1, 10942 La. Highway 112.
Rapides Parish Fire District #2 Station #1, 5104 Ransbottom Drive; Station #2, 6850 England Drive; Station #3, 3722 Church St.; Station #4, 6613 Hot Wells Road; and Station #5, 20 Kincaid Road.
Ruby Kolin Fire Department, 1217 Palmer Chapel Road/Training Center.
Spring Creek Fire Department Station #1, 757 La. Highway 113.
Taylor Hill Fire Department Station #1, 571 Old La. Highway 1.
Woodworth Fire Department Station #1, 9059 U.S. Highway 165 South.
This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Find sandbags, info on Francine cancellations in Rapides Parish here
