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