Sudbury Hurricane Shelter Open at Fairbank Center

Subdury's 24-hour emergency shelter at the Fairbank Community Center opened Monday at 8 a.m., and by early afternoon at least one person had sought refuge there from Hurricane Sandy.

"We're ready to go," said Marie Royea, co-chair of Sudbury's Community Emergency Response Team, who with several other CERT volunteers had set up cots in the gym and was prepping for more Sudbury residents to likely arrive later Monday afternoon and into the evening.

How many people does Sudbury CERT expect to take shelter?

"We don't have a clue," Royea said. "It could be two, or it could be 200."

Fire Chief William Miles, as head of Sudbury CERT, requested that the shelter be open Monday at 8 a.m., to take a proactive approach to offering shelter to those in need, Royea said.

The shelter can accommodate 150 over-night guests, and if it reaches capacity, Sudbury CERT would call on the Red Cross for assistance.

Lydia, the shelter's first guest, arrived Monday afternoon after deciding the "big trees and big winds" near her home on Dutton Road were not a good combination, especially after hearing a loud bang on her house. 

Royea said those seeking shelter are encouraged to bring bedding, food and anything else that would make them comfortable during their stay. CERT will have food available, but anything people bring is helpful, especially if they have special dietary needs or restrictions, she said. Also, people should make sure to bring any medicines they need.

CERT volunteers will staff the shelter over night, and into Tuesday and Tuesday night, if needed. Volunteers were also contacting the elderly in town to inform them of the shelter and offer help.

Shower facilities and Wifi are also available at the shelter. People can also bring jugs to fill up with water if they lose power and cannot access their wells.