County officials warn residents of severe storms possibility

Early indications are that Hanna could cause significant rainfall in the region

   Mercer County is urging its residents to be prepared for severe weather and heavy rains in the coming days as Tropical Storm Hanna is predicted to make landfall on the southeast United States and impact weather conditions in Central New Jersey.
   Early indications are that Hanna could cause significant rainfall in the region that could lead to localized flooding of streets and streams, flooding of basements and, depending on the location of the storm, a rise in the level of the Delaware River might occur.
   ”We want Mercer County residents to be as prepared as possible for whatever conditions may occur due to this predicted tropical storm,” said Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes. “Severe rain and flooding can always carry risks, and adequately preparing your home or business ahead of time can save lives and property.”
   NJ State Police Superintendent Colonel Rick Fuentes said state emergency personnel were already working with county and local emergency management to ready what resources may be needed.
   ”Hurricanes like all weather events are not always predictable. Programs such as Doppler radar, Storm Tracker, AccuWeather and Earth Watch will hit the nail on the head more times than most, but they still can’t always read Mother Nature’s mind,” he said. “At times, the weather might be a mystery but your family’s emergency plan should never be a guessing game.”
   The Mercer County Office of Emergency Management will participate in monitoring and communicating the tracking and assessment of Tropical Storm Hanna over the next several days, Mr. Hughes said. In addition, local emergency management volunteer groups — such as the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) — have been notified to be poised to respond. CERT members give critical support to first responders in emergencies, provide immediate assistance to victims, organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site, and collect disaster intelligence to support first responder efforts.
   New Jersey OEM remains in constant communication with all New Jersey county offices of emergency management, the National Weather Service, and state and federal partners, according to Col. Fuentes.
   Mercer County’s OEM has also joined the New Jersey OEM in a month-long awareness campaign in September asking residents to prepare for unexpected emergencies by getting a kit, making a plan, and staying informed. In addition to traditional emergency tips, both are encouraging all New Jersey residents to get involved and make a difference through volunteerism.
   BELOW is a list of some quick tips for emergency preparedness:
   • ”GET A KIT” of Emergency Supplies for Your Home. This should include: three days’ supply of canned, non-perishable, ready-to-eat food; three days’ supply of water (a total of three gallons per family member); battery-operated radio and extra batteries; flashlight and extra batteries; one week’s prescription medications; First Aid kit; personal toiletries; non-electric can opener and utensils; special needs items; infant care items; items for elderly family members; items for relatives with disabilities; cash or travelers checks.
   Store important documents in a waterproof, safe location.
   In case you need to evacuate, keep a half-gallon of gas at all times. Every family member must carry contact information for all phone numbers at work, school, etc. for every family member, and the name and number of a relative who lives out-of-state to call in case your family gets separated.
   • ”MAKE A PLAN” for yourself, your family or your business. Meet with the members of your household or office. Talk about the types of disasters that are most likely to happen in your area. Take time to explain the dangers of emergency incidents to children. Discuss why everyone needs to prepare for a disaster. Address any special needs concerns in the event of an emergency. Build an emergency contact phone list. Make provisions for pets. Remember to establish and share emergency incident responsibilities. Emphasize that teamwork and staying calm are key.
   For more information regarding emergency preparedness, visit: www.ready.nj.gov/plan/kit-plan.html. For more information regarding the CERT program, visit: www.state.nj.us/njoem/emb_cert.html or call 963-6900, ext. 6964.