TRENTON, N.J. — With Tropical Storm Joaquin having taken on hurricane status, Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes is advising residents to prepare now for potential weather-related power outages, localized flooding and wind damage this weekend.
“While it’s too early to know exactly what path this storm will take and how it will impact Mercer County, it’s not too early to prepare,” Hughes said. “We’ve had to deal with some major storms in recent years, so everyone should know the drill. Don’t wait until the last minute – start getting ready now, just in case.”
Hughes said people should have an ample supply of food and water at home in case they need to limit travel and stay indoors while the storm is active. Weekend plans should be flexible and take into account the possible need to limit travel and outdoor activities. The Delaware River is not expected to rise significantly but emergency management officials will monitor it closely, Hughes said, adding that localized street and small creek flooding are more likely.
“Please be prepared to stay safely indoors and avoid unnecessary travel should this storm affect us, and plan for power outages,” Hughes said. “Follow reports on local radio, TV and the Internet for the latest weather information.”
Hughes suggests taking the following readiness steps in preparation for storms:
— Put together a kit of emergency supplies that includes a three-day supply of canned, non-perishable, ready-to-eat food; a three-day supply of water (a total of 3 gallons per family member); a battery-operated radio and extra batteries; a flashlight and extra batteries; and a first aid kit.
— Make a plan for what you and your family will do during an emergency. This includes knowing how to evacuate and how to “shelter in place,” which means stay home and avoid driving if at all possible.
— Stay informed of possible threats by tuning in to your local media outlets for the latest breaking weather news. Also register for the Alert-MercerCounty emergency notification system at https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/BF9DC950E8BD.
The State Office of Emergency Management has prepared a “Hurricane Survival Guide for New Jersey” that’s a complete resource for preparing your home or business for hurricane season. You can find it on the New Jersey OEM website,
www.ready.nj.gov/, or by visiting the Mercer County website, www.mercercounty.org.
