BEFORE THE STORM - Safe Preparations Should Begin

BEFORE THE STORM - Safe Preparations Should Begin

Over the next several days Hurricane Sandy will approach the mid-Atlantic with the exact landfall location still uncertain.  Wherever the storm comes on shore, the Jersey Shore Region, including Monmouth County, will feel the impact of the storm with high winds and heavy rain early next week.  Power outages and flash flooding are a strong possibility.  Citizens, residents and businesses should be making preparations for the storm now.  Do not panic, the storm is still days away and taking action now will allow plenty of safe preparation time.  The National Weather Service is forecasting we could start seeing some rain and wind as early as Sunday and weather progressively worsening through Tuesday and into Wednesday.

Asbury Park citizens, residents and businesses are advised to take appropriate precautions now to stay safe.

BEFORE THE STORM:

• Stay informed by monitoring local news broadcasts about approaching weather.  Sign up to Asbury Park's Code Red Alerting System and receive important news and storm updates on your mobile device.  Follow @AsburyParkFire on Twitter for up to the minute Fire/EMS news and safety advice.  Have all mobile devices fully charged before and during the storm.

• Have your emergency kit prepared, stocked and ready.  For additional information on what should be in your kit go to: www.ready.gov

• Your emergency kit should include a battery operated radio and flashlights.  We do not recommend the use of candles during power outages.

• Ensure your Smoke alarm and CO detector are tested and have fresh batteries.

• Consider purchasing bags of ice that can be stored in your freezer.

• Ensure your cell phones, lap tops and tablets are completely charged.

• Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas.

• Consider having a quanity of cash on hand in the event that ATM's and banks are out of power.

• Remove any objects in your yard that could become airborne during periods of high winds.  Secure larger items by tying them down.

• Clean and clear your storm drains of any debris that could clog and back up rain water.

• Management companies should safely inspect their rooftops to ensure all gutters and roof top drains are clear and clean up any debris that will clog drains when it rains.  Pooling water on roof tops could cause water damage inside and cause a possible collapse.

• Stay ready to take quick actions in the event of severe weather including remaining indoors and going to the lowest possible level or floor and if possible in a room with no windows. Have your emergency kit ready. 

• Check with your work location on what is the plan and notification for cancellations.

• Set up a communications plan with family members and friends.  Remember that "texting" has been more reliable then cell phone calls and emails during times of high usage and outages.

• If you have a generator - follow manufacturer's instructions on how to use it safely, position it far enough away from your residence to avoid CO finding it's way inside, refuel after cool-down, use approved outdoor heavy-duty extension cords that are free of any rips and tears.

• Stay Informed, Stay Ready, Stay Safe.  Don't panic, stay calm and prepare.

Presidential Proclamation -- Fire Prevention Week, 2012

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Every year, fires in and around homes nationwide put thousands of Americans in harm's way. From the loss of a home to the tragic passing of a loved one, the devastation these disasters leave in their wake is heartbreaking. During Fire Prevention Week, we resolve to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from fires, and we honor the courageous first responders who put their lives at risk to keep us safe.

All of us can take meaningful steps to reduce the risk of fire in our homes. I encourage all Americans to install and maintain smoke alarms, test smoke alarm batteries regularly, and follow safe practices in the kitchen and when using electrical appliances. Families should also develop and practice a fire escape plan that includes at least two ways out of every room. To learn more about these and other simple precautions against home fires, visit www.Ready.gov 

This year, wildfires caused profound damage to communities across our country, and our Nation mourned the loss of life that followed. These events reminded us that wildfires are often unpredictable, which is why it is essential for people in areas at risk to practice proper fire prevention and preparedness. Those who live in regions prone to wildfire can take action by clearing flammable vegetation, preparing an emergency supply kit, and sharing evacuation routes and a communications plan with their family in case of emergency. Individuals who see a wildfire should report it by calling 911, and if advised, evacuate immediately.

As we mark Fire Prevention Week by recommitting to preparedness, we also extend our thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by fires this year -- including the brave first responders who fought them. Summoning courage in crisis and bringing discipline and professionalism to the job each and every day, America's firefighters are heroes in every sense. This week, we express our deepest gratitude for their service to our communities and our Nation, and we pay solemn tribute to the men and women who gave their lives to protect our own. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and in their memory, let us rededicate ourselves to preventing tragedy before it strikes.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 7 through October 13, 2012, as Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday, October 7, 2012, in accordance with Public Law 107-51, the flag of the United States will be flown at half-staff on all Federal office buildings in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. I call on all Americans to participate in this observance with appropriate programs and activities and by renewing their efforts to prevent fires and their tragic consequences.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

copied from Whitehouse.gov

National Preparedness Month – Pledge to Prepare!

National Preparedness Month – Pledge to Prepare!

How many of you know that September is National Preparedness Month?  This year’s theme is “Pledge to Prepare - Awareness to Action.”  Fire safety should be an important part of preparedness planning for you and your loved ones as well!

 

Have you tested your smoke alarms lately?  Do you know how often you should check your alarms?

Do you have a home escape plan in case of fire?  Does it include knowing two ways out in case of fire?  Have you held a fire drill to practice the plan?

Are you aware that once smoke alarms are anywhere from eight to ten years old they should be replaced?

If you did not know even ONE of the above facts or answered NO to one of the others, I would encourage you to take a moment and visit our partners in safety at the US Fire Administration web site to learn more.

What you learn could save your life or that of a loved one! 

Slow Down, Watch Out! Kids Ahead. Back to School Safety Tips

ASBURY PARK- - - Children across the area are heading back to school and the Asbury Park Fire Department is asking drivers to exercise extra caution as the school year begins. “Safety is our top priority. With schools back in session, drivers should allow extra time and be on the look-out for kids at intersections and in roadways. Additionally, as a matter of safety and compliance with laws, drivers are reminded to put their cell phones down and refrain from talking or texting while driving.

For Drivers

• Be alert and slow down. Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Put down your phone and don’t talk or text while driving. 
• Exercise extra caution as you head out to work and be on the lookout for school buses. Many bus routes or schedules change each year and you may encounter a school bus or stop where you may have never seen one before. Be alert. For many children this may be the first time they have ever traveled on a bus.
• Each passenger should wear a seat belt and/or ride in an age and size-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat. Children of all ages are safest when properly restrained in the backseat.
• Take extra time when making a right turn on a red light. This can be a dangerous situation for pedestrians.
• School Zones: Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods and around schools. Be alert to children as you back out of your driveway or exit your garage.
• Expect delays near schools, plan ahead and allow extra time to reach your destination.

• Safety on the road is especially important for “new” drivers that may be driving to school for the first time.
  

Reminders for Parents and Children 

• Be realistic about your child’s pedestrian skills. Children are not always aware of their surroundings and may dart into traffic assuming drivers will see and stop for them. Carefully consider whether your child is ready to walk to school or wait for the bus without adult supervision and walk the route with your child beforehand.
• Children often have a hard time judging speed and distance and should cross the street with an adult until they are at least 10 years old. Teach children to always cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks and look left, right and left again before crossing.
• If traveling to school by bike, obey the rules of the road and wear a helmet! Not only is it the smart thing to do, it is also the law in New Jersey.
• Be sure that your child knows his or her phone number and address, your work number and when to call 911 for emergencies.
• Only drive or park in authorized areas when picking up or dropping off students at school.
• Be a good neighbor. Respect private property and always be on your best behavior while waiting for the bus. 

School Bus Safety – What Motorists Should Know 

All motorists are required by law to stop when the red lights on buses are flashing. Passing a school bus when the red lights are flashing is not only illegal it is also one of the biggest threats to student safety. Motorists should be aware that the red flashing lights and the stop sign may be engaged shortly after the amber lights are on. Vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus are always required to stop. In New Jersey the law states that vehicles must come to a complete stop on both sides of the roadway if there is no physical divider or barrier. Violations can result in a citation and fine. 

Home Alone
Parents need to carefully consider the pros and cons of having a child stay home alone before/after school. Be familiar with laws and child protective policies and, because children mature at different rates, your decision should not be based on age alone. Children should master important safety skills before staying home alone. Be sure to make and practice a home fire escape plan that includes a designated “safe” area outside where everyone will meet if the smoke alarm sounds and ensure they know when and how to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Unattended cooking continues to be a leading cause of home fires and firefighters strongly recommend having after school snacks on hand that do not require cooking. Children should only use kitchen appliances while under close adult supervision.

Why Flexible Hose Connectors Should Have Thermal Gas Shutoffs

Most home gas appliances connect to black iron gas lines and manual gas shutoffs with flexible hoses. The weakest link in the gas supply to the appliance is the flexible hose, which is only rated up to 150° F.

When a fire occurs near the hose, it can easily be compromised – and if it is damaged, the resulting gas leak can feed and accelerate the fire.
For this reason, many countries require automatic thermal gas shutoffs be installed between the black pipe and the flexible hose.

The U.S. building codes require gas appliances to include manual gas shutoff valves. Adding a simple, inexpensive thermal gas shutoff fitting with the valve provides a level of safety that the manual valve alone cannot provide.

The diagram above illustrates the advantages of a gas installation with a thermal gas shutoff. Thermal gas shutoffs protect homeowners and first responders by isolating gas flow from the flexible hoses, which are typically rated at only 150°F. Manual shutoff valves are rated at 300°F, and the FireBag is rated at 1,697°F. With most home fires originating at the stove or gas range, adding this small thermal shutoff fitting to the gas line pays back in preserving lives and property.

According to NFIRS data, between 2008 and 2010, civilian fire casualties in residential buildings accounted for 81% of all fire fatalities. In that same time period, the highest rate of civilian fire fatalities came from appliance fires. Appliance fires produced 1,351 fatalities per 1,000 fatal fires, which tells us that multiple deaths occur in too many appliance fires.

APFD Firefighters Stress Hot Weather Safety

With the arrival of peak Summer temperatures on the Jersey Shore, the Asbury Park Fire Department suggests that you:

• Minimize the risks of hot weather.
• Prepare your household, pets and workplace.
• Plan to get relief from and avoid the effects of heat.

Plan to wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that covers as much of your skin as practical, and a well-ventilated hat with a wide brim - or carry an umbrella. Wear plenty of sunblock and stay in the shade whenever possible.

Adjust your attire and activities to limit heat exposure and exertion!

Water is normally the best drink during hot weather, and you'll need more than you think. If you have a medical condition or are under a doctor's care, consult with a physician.

Drinks with alcohol or caffeine can make the heat's effect on your body much worse. Avoid salt tablets unless directed by a doctor, and plan on eating light, healthy meals.

Key Rules: Drink plenty of water before you become thirsty and rest in the shade before you become tired!

If you feel ill, tell someone immediately. Symptoms of dehydration and heat illness may include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache and vomiting.

Many heat emergencies occur to people exercising, working or staying alone. Use a buddy system and check on elderly, disabled or at-risk neighbors on a regular basis. If you suspect someone is experiencing a medical emergency from extreme heat exposure, call 9-1-1.

If your home does not have air conditioning, consider a cool place to visit or stay during the hottest part of the day.

Schools, libraries, theaters, shopping malls and community facilities such as senior centers and parks may offer an air-conditioned refuge. If activated by officials during peak temperatures, designated cooling centers in Asbury Park can be found by calling 732-437-6000.

Pets, are also susceptible to hot weather. See that the special needs of your animals are met, including copious shade and plenty of cool water.

Never leave children, pets or dependent adults alone in a hot car. Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can quickly rise to lethal levels.

Learn more about hot weather safety at:





emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat

Children, Hot Weather & Cars = Danger!

During hot weather - and throughout the year, the Asbury Park Fire Department asks you to consider some important safety tips for vehicles and children.


We need your help to make sure that no child dies needlessly by being left alone in a hot vehicle.

• Always put something you'll need - such as your phone, handbag, a sunshade, lunch or briefcase on the floor in the back seat. This will make you open the back door of your vehicle every time you reach a destination. This way, making sure no child is left behind becomes a habit. Safety experts call this the 'Look Before You Lock' campaign.

• Keep a large teddy bear in the child's car seat when it’s not occupied. When the child is placed in the seat, put the teddy bear in the front passenger seat. It's a great visual reminder that anytime the teddy bear is up front, a child is secured in a child safety seat behind you!

• Make arrangements with your child’s day care center or babysitter that you will always call them when your child will not be there on a particular day as scheduled. This is not only common courtesy, but makes sure everyone involved in the care of your child is informed of their whereabouts. Ask these caregivers to always phone you if your child doesn’t show up when expected.

• If you see a child (dependent adult or pet) alone in a hot vehicle, get involved. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out as quickly and safely as possible. Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number for assistance as necessary.

• Never leave your car keys where children can access them, and always make sure your car is locked so that children cannot get in without adult supervision.

• Do not underestimate a child's capabilities. Teach your children about the dangers of a car, especially the car trunk. Most children can differentiate between a tool and a toy. Make certain they know that a car is not a toy!

For additional information about child and hot weather vehicle safety:

• safercar.gov/heatstroke
• kidsandcars.org
• safekids.org
• http://ggweather.com/heat/
• CDC Hot Weather Safety Information

Several Product Recalls Due to Fire and Shock Hazard

Usually, we post Consumer Product Safety Commission recalls on our Twitter and Facebook pages.  Every once in a while, they put out a whole lot at once and it is best to put them all here on our blog in one spot.

In this instance, a lot of fire related recalls.  Please take a moment and click on the links below to learn more and see if you possibly have one of these potentially dangerous products in your home.  If you do immediately take the steps recommended.

PajamaGram Recalls Children's Pajamas Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard

Children's Pajamas Recalled by Ishtex Textile Products Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard

Children's Lounge Pants and Boxers Recalled by Rigo International Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard

IKEA Recalls Track Lighting System Due to Electric Shock Hazard

Watkins Manufacturing and Therm Products Recall Spas Due to Fire Hazard

Exhaust Fans Sold at Lowe's Stores Recalled Due to Fire Hazard; Made by Delta Electronics Dongguan

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Another scorcher today!  Over the last couple of weeks, we at Asbury Park Fire Dept. have preached to everyone to stay cool and stay hydrated.  Hopefully, everyone will be able to do that.


Just in case, We thought it would be useful to post the signs and symptoms of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke.  Warning signs can vary among individuals but common signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke may include: 

Heat Exhaustion:

• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Pulse rate: fast and weak
• Breathing: fast and shallow
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Headache and/or dizziness 

Heat Stroke:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees)
• The absence of sweating
• Rapid pulse 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Throbbing headache
• Strange behavior and/or hallucinations
• Confusion, agitation and disorientation
• Unconscious                             

If you recognize that you, or someone else, is showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop the activity immediately, find a cool place to rest, hydrate and seek medical attention if necessary.


Remember, Heat Stroke is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY that can be fatal if not treated promptly.  Call 911 right away if you suspect Heat Stroke.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 1, 2012      State of emergency still in effect Only Middletown HS North giving out water Monday Conservation efforts helped lift the boil water advisory in 18 towns    MIDDLETOWN, NJ – With the boil water advisory reduced to just four towns, only one water distribution site – Middletown High School North – will open on Monday. Hours at the school, located at 63 Tindall Rd., are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. This afternoon, the New Jersey American Water Company in cooperation with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the county’s Office of Emergency Management removed the boil water advisory in 18 of the 22 towns that have been under a boil water advisory since Friday. Only residents in Aberdeen, Highlands, Holmdel and Middletown should continue to boil their water. Limit remains at one case per car.   “I want to commend residents throughout Monmouth County because it was through their effort to conserve water that enabled New Jersey American Water Co. to lift the advisory for 18 of the 22 towns affected,” Freeholder Director Jon P. Curley said. “But we are not out of the woods yet. It is still critically important to continue conserving water in order to keep the restriction off.” The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders declared a state of emergency Friday afternoon following the collapse of three large water pipes at New Jersey American Water Co.’s water treatment plant at the Swimming River Reservoir. The ongoing water emergency means that: All New Jersey American Water Company customers are under mandatory water restriction that bans all outdoor water use and encourages indoor water conservation. It is illegal to water your lawn, shrubs or gardens, fill swimming pools and wash cars. Indoor conservation measures include refraining from using washing machines and dishwashers, limiting showering times and flushing toilets less frequently. Outdoor water conservation is highly encouraged by residents of the 31 towns not directly impacted by the water emergency.  “The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office is working with local law enforcement agencies to ensure that the outdoor water ban is strictly enforced in areas serviced by New Jersey American Water Co.,” Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden said.    Three large water pipes at New Jersey American Water Co. broke around noon Friday, causing a reduction or total loss of water pressure or supply. Other water companies have been rerouting water to New Jersey American Water Co. customers, but not enough to meet normal demand. “That’s why it is so important to conserve water regardless of what utility you receive your water from,” Monmouth County Emergency Management Coordinator Michael Oppegaard said. Additionally, New Jersey American Water Co. recommends the customers in the four towns still under the boil water advisory take the following steps: ·         Water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute then cooled prior to using; ·         Keep water that has been boiled in the refrigerator for drinking; ·         Rinse hand-washed dishes for a minute in diluted bleach (one tablespoon of household bleach per gallon of tap water) or clean your dishes in a dishwasher using the hot wash cycle and dry cycle.   ·         Do not swallow water while you are showering or bathing; ·         Provide pets with boiled water after cooling; ·         Do not use home filtering devices in place of boiling or using bottled water; most home water filters will not provide adequate protection from microorganisms, and ·         Use only boiled water to treat minor injuries. #     #     #

UPDATED: New Jersey American Water Monmouth County Customers Under Boil Water Advisory; Company Bans Outdoor Water Use

Alert Notifications

PWSID:

Issue Date: 06-29-2012

New Jersey American Water Monmouth County Customers Under Boil Water Advisory

New Jersey American Water is urging its customers in Monmouth County to discontinue all nonessential water use and outdoor water use after three water mains collapsed at the company’s Swimming River Water Treatment Plant in Tinton Falls.

New Jersey American Water has also issued a precautionary boil water advisory for customers in Monmouth County in the communities listed below.

This notice impacts customers in the following communities:  

• Aberdeen
• Holmdel 
• Middletown (in the Lincroft, Port Monmout, Navesink, New Monmouth sections only)
• Highlands
• Little Silver
• Rumson
• Fair Haven
• Tinton Falls
• Eatontown
• Sea Bright
• Oceanport
• Shrewsbury
• Long Branch
• West Long Branch
• Deal
• Allenhurst
• Loch Arbour
• Neptune Township

Please note that this is a standard procedure whenever water pressure is lost as a precaution. New Jersey American Water will provide information as to when the advisory is lifted. 

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection requires that the company issue the following advisory:

New Jersey American Water has determined that a potential or actual threat to the quality of water being provided to you currently exists. Therefore until further notice, bring tap water to a rolling boil for one minute and allow to cool before using for consumption; drinking, ice cubes, washing vegetables and fruit, and for brushing teeth. Please continue to boil your water until you are notified that the water quality is acceptable.

New Jersey American Water also recommends the following steps:
• Throw away uncooked food or beverages or ice cubes if made with tap water during the day of the advisory;
• Keep boiled water in the refrigerator for drinking;
• Rinse hand-washed dishes for a minute in diluted bleach (one tablespoon of household bleach per gallon of tap water) or clean your dishes in a dishwasher using the hot wash cycle and dry cycle.
• Do not swallow water while you are showering or bathing;
• Provide pets with boiled water after cooling;
• Do not use home filtering devices in place of boiling or using bottled water; most home water filters will not provide adequate protection from microorganisms;
• Use only boiled water to treat minor injuries.

Please be advised that the company is doing all it can to ensure your water is of the highest quality. New Jersey American Water will notify customers immediately when the advisory is lifted.

New Jersey American Water is working on temporary measures to restore normal operations at its Swimming River Water Treatment Plant. The plant delivers 36 million gallons of water each day to 55,000 customer accounts.

Bottled water stations will be set up tonight until 11 p.m. and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting tomorrow at the following locations:

• Middletown High School North, 63 Tindall Road, Middletown Township
• Middletown High School South, 900 Nut Swamp Road Middletown (also bring your own water jug to be filled at this location)
• Wolf Hill Park, 3 Crescent Place, Oceanport

For updates, customers can visit www.newjerseyamwater.com or www.facebook.com/newjerseyamericanwater.

Contact Information:
Name: Customer Service Center
Company: New Jersey American Water
Phone: 1-800-652-6987
Alt. Phone: n/a

Declaration of Emergency from the Monmouth County Office of Emergency Management

DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY

TO ALL CITIZENS BUSINESSES, DEPARTMENTS, DIVISIONS AND OFFICES WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF THE COUNTY OF MONMOUTH STATE OF NEW JERSEY  

WHEREAS, PURSUANT TO THE POWERS VESTED IN ME BY CHAPTER 251 OF THE LAWS OF 1942, AS AMENDED AND SUPPLEMENTED, NJSA APP A:9-30  ET  SEQ; NJSA 40:48-1(6) AND ordinance PURSUANT THERETO; NJSA 2C:33-1 ET SEQ; AND ALL SECTIONS AND SUBSECTIONS, I HAVE DECLARED THAT A COUNTY-WIDE DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY EXISTS WITHIN THE COUNTY OF MONMOUTH,

WHEREAS, THE AFORESAID LAWS AUTHORIZE THE PROMULGATION OF SUCH ORDERS, RULES AND REGULATIONS AS ARE NECESSARY TO MEET THE VARIOUS PROBLEMS WHICH HAVE OR MAY BE PRESENTED BY SUCH EMERGENCY, AND,

WHEREAS, BY REASON OF THE SERIOUS CONDITIONS WHICH PRESENTLY EXIST WITHIN THE COUNTY OF MONMOUTH WHICH MAY AFFECT THE HEALTH, SAFETY AND OR WELFARE OF THE PEOPLE, AND

WHEREAS, IT HAS BEEN DETERMINED MANDATORY WATER USE RESTRICTIONS FOR ALL RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES IN MONMOUTH COUNTY.  THIS ACTION IS A RESULT OF DAMAGES THAT OCCURRED TODAY, JUNE 29, 2012 TO THE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM AT THE NEW JERSEY AMERICAN WATER SUPPLY SWIMMING RIVER PLANT IN MIDDLETOWN, MONMOUTH COUNTY.   NEW JERSEY AMERICAN WATER HAS BEGUN PIPELINE REPAIRS, BUT HAS DETERMINED THAT CONSERVATION EFFORTS WILL HELP US MAINTAIN ADEQUATE PRESSURE DURING THE REPAIR PERIOD

AND FURTHER, THAT CERTAIN MEASURES MUST BE TAKEN TO INSURE ORDER AND TO PROTECT THE PERSONS AND PROPERTY AFFECTED BY SAID CONDITIONS AND INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN BY NEW JERSEY AMERICAN WATER CUSTOMERS;

•         Throw away uncooked food or beverages or ice cubes if made with tap water during the day of the advisory;

•         Keep boiled water in the refrigerator for drinking;

•         Rinse hand-washed dishes for a minute in diluted bleach (one tablespoon of household bleach per gallon of tap water) or clean your dishes in a dishwasher using the hot wash cycle and dry cycle.  

•         Do not swallow water while you are showering or bathing;

•         Provide pets with boiled water after cooling;

•         Do not use home filtering devices in place of boiling or using bottled water; most home water filters will not provide adequate protection from microorganisms;

•         Use only boiled water to treat minor injuries.

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED THAT,

A.        The mandatory restrictions include the following:

           

            No watering of existing lawns shrubs, trees, and gardens

            No use of water for non-essential reasons

            Washing of cars is prohibited except at commercial car washing facilities that employ the use recycled water.

B.  Other necessary orders

These mandatory restrictions will be in place until further notice.  It is important to note that the restrictions may remain in place until necessary repairs are made to the distribution system and it is deemed that all public safety operations can be maintained.

NOW THEREFORE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AFORESAID LAWS, I DO HEREBY PROMULGATE AND DECLARE THAT THE ABOVE CITED APPLICABLE REGULATIONS SHALL BE IN ADDITION TO ALL OTHER LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY, THE COUNTY OF MONMOUTH AND ITS MUNICIPALITIES.

________________________________   _______________    __________

Emergency Management Coordinator                   Date                     Time

Michael E. Oppegaard

__________________

John P. Curley Director

Monmouth county Board of Chosen freeholder

Reminders, Tips for Safe Disposal of Ash from Grills Provided by the Asbury Park Fire Department.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Reminders, Tips for Safe Disposal of Ash from Grills Provided by the Asbury Park Fire Department.

With grilling season in full swing, the Asbury Park Fire Department issuing reminders and tips about the importance of safely disposing of the ash generated when using outdoor grills. 

Residents are reminded to never put out ashes from outdoor barbecues (and fireplaces) for collection with their regular household trash unless they have been thoroughly soaked with water or held for at least a week to ensure there are no residual embers.

“Many residents are enjoying the summer weather, spending more time outdoors, and having barbecues. It’s extremely important that they allow the ashes from their grills – as well as any fireplaces or fire pits – to cool down completely before they properly dispose of them.” 

“Hot ashes that are not properly cooled and disposed are significant fire hazards, capable of starting fires while mixed in loads of waste in refuse collection trucks or while waste is actually being processed at the county’s reclamation center.

The risk of fire becomes even greater due to the hot, dry weather conditions during the summertime. Improper disposal of ashes or hot coals from fireplaces, grills or mobile fireplaces designed for decks or patios has become a common cause of many recent fires. 

Embers often concealed in what appears to be cold ashes, can remain hot enough to rekindle a fire for several days. We want residents to enjoy their fireplaces and grills but to always dispose of the ashes wisely.

Fire Department officials remind residents to:

• Allow ashes and coals to cool in place for several days, if possible.

• When it’s time to dispose of the ashes, transfer them to a metal container and wet them down. Only use an approved metal ash bucket that has a tight fitting metal lid.

• Store the container outside, away from structures, decks, fences, wood piles or other combustible materials.

• Never use a vacuum cleaner to pick up ashes.

• Never dump ashes into a plastic container, cardboard box, bag, or anything or in any place where combustible fluids of fumes are present.

• Don't dump ashes outside on a windy day. The wind can whip up what may have seemed like cool embers, making them fiery hot and sending them traveling to ignite nearby combustibles.

• And lastly, always have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly.

“Please Abide – Pull Aside”

Hear Us, See Us, Clear for Us!

“Please Abide – Pull Aside”

Do you know what to do when approached by an emergency vehicle? The Asbury Park area is often crowded and congested with traffic conditions caused by commuters and visitors to the area, collisions, work zones and sometimes just “normal” traffic.

Emergency vehicles are impacted by these conditions, as well. When somebody calls 911 for help – the members of the Asbury Park Fire Department respond. How can everyday drivers help us to help you? – Normally drivers will HEAR us first, next they will SEE us, and then we need drivers to CLEAR for us.

HEAR US - SEE US - CLEAR FOR US 

C – L – E – A – R for emergency vehicles.

C – Calmly pull to and as close to the edge of the roadway as possible and stop.

L – Leave room. Keep intersections clear and never try to follow emergency vehicles.

E – Enter into traffic with caution after the emergency vehicle has passed. Remember to use signals.

A – Aware (be). Be aware of your surroundings. Keep radio volume low and check rear view mirrors frequently.

R – Remain stopped until the emergency vehicle ha passed. Be mindful that there may be additional emergency vehicles approaching.

When approached by an emergency vehicle – the law says to pull over to the closest parallel edge of the roadway and yield the right of way to the emergency vehicle. An emergency vehicle is one with an audible siren and/or siren and emergency flashing lights. When driving and approaching an emergency scene – slow down and move over. In other words - “Give us a brake!”

Reduce the risk of an accident near an emergency scene and around emergency equipment.

Stay alert – expect anything to occur when approaching emergency vehicles.

Pay close attention – watch for police or fire direction.

Turn on your headlights – let on scene workers and other motorists see you.

Don’t tailgate – unexpected stops frequently occur near emergency scenes.

Don’t speed – slow down.

Keep up with the traffic flow – dedicate your full attention to the roadway and those traveling around you.

Minimize distractions – avoid changing radio stations and using mobile cell phones while approaching these areas.

Expect the unexpected – keep an eye out for emergency workers and their equipment.

Be patient – remember, firefighters and EMT’s have been called to the scene and are working to help someone.

Rip Current Awareness – What You Need to Know.

Rip currents can be found on many surf beaches every day. Rip currents most typically form at low spots or breaks in sandbars, and also near structures such as groins, jetties and piers. The definition of rip current is: A powerful channel of water that flows away from the shore. They can be narrow or more than 50 yards wide.

The United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) estimates that rip currents account for over eighty percent of all beach rescues and over 100 deaths annually at our nation’s beaches. Signs that a rip current is present are difficult for the average beachgoer to identify.  Look for differences in the water color, water motion, incoming wave shape or breaking point compared to adjacent conditions.

So, what do you need to know before you go to the beach?  The USLA offers some good tips and precautions that every swimmer should head or at least hear.

Rip Current Myth

A rip current is a horizontal current. Rip currents do not pull people under the water–-they pull people away from shore. Drowning deaths occur when people pulled offshore are unable to keep themselves afloat and swim to shore. This may be due to any combination of fear, panic, exhaustion, or lack of swimming skills.

How to Avoid and Survive Rip Currents

Learn how to swim!

• Never swim alone.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out!
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard protected beach.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards.
• If caught in a rip current, remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Don’t fight the current. Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself: face the shore, wave your arms, and yell for help.
• If you see someone in trouble, get help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1. Throw the rip current victim something that floats and yell instructions on how to escape.Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.