Baton Rouge officials say do not panic, but get prepared | News

BATON ROUGE, LA (WAFB)- Officials
in Baton Rouge are urging people to get prepared, as Tropical Storm Isaac is
expected to affect the area in the upcoming days.

Mayor Kip
Holden held a news conference around 9:30 a.m. to notify people on the latest
steps the parish is making in anticipation of the storm.

He said he
has filed a state of emergency for East Baton Rouge Parish. He advised people
to remove or batten down any loose debris in their yards.

"Do
not panic," Holden said. "This is a storm that bears watching."

"This
is an unpredictable storm," added William Daniel, chief administrative
officer. "A small change in the direction of the storm can make a big
difference for Baton Rouge."

Sandbags
will be available at all Baton Rouge fire stations later in the day.

Holden
suggested people buy enough for four or five days. He added homeowners should
take a look at their trees, particularly water oaks because those have caused
problems in the past.

Daniel
reminded anyone with problems to call 311. It is being manned 24 hours a day
now.

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