September is ground zero for the hurricane season and now is the time to prepare for any tropical system that may threaten our coast, Ocean County officials said.
“While Hurricane Dorian currently poses no threat to our region, this monster storm should serve as a reminder that the Jersey Shore remains vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms,” said Freeholder Director Virginia E. Haines.
Haines said residents should prepare an emergency plan and be ready to act well in advance if a major storm targets the county.
Every home should have an up-to-date portable disaster supply kit at all times, which includes: a gallon of drinking water a day for each person, prescription drugs and special dietary foods, a supply of non-perishable foods, a first aid kit, a battery powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries.
“The time to prepare this kit is now,” said Freeholder Deputy Director John P. Kelly. “Don’t wait for a storm to approach.
Kelly, who is also Director of Law and Public Safety, said residents should also pay close attention to weather reports.
“Forecasts usually give us at least five days warning of a dangerous storm,” he said. “Pay attention and be ready to act.”
If you are evacuated to a shelter, it is recommended to bring blankets/sleeping bags/pillows, change of clothes, cash/credit card/checkbook, family documents, birth certificates, insurance policies, stock certificates, medicine and prescription drugs, infant formula/food, special dietary foods and diapers.
In addition to having a household Disaster Supplies Kit, it is important to have Animal Supply Kits and Take-Along Bags for service animals and pets. Pet kits should include: a two-week supply of water and food, non-spill food and water dishes, cage/carrier labeled with contact information, favorite toys and treats, leash, collar and harness, litter, litter pan, paper towels and plastic baggies, and pet medication.
It is also advised to make sure that your pets and service animals have current ID tags, and that their vaccinations are current. A plan as to how your pets will be cared for if you have to evacuate, as well as keeping them confined or securely leashed during or after a disaster will help them from being confused or frightened.
Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy also encouraged residents with disabilities to sign up for Register Ready, New Jersey’s Special Needs registry for disasters. The program provides information to emergency responders so they can better meet specific needs of disabled residents in the event of a disaster or other emergency.
“This registry not only helps our senior and special-needs residents, but it also provides information so that residents can be checked on during weather emergencies,” Mastronardy said.
To register online, go to www.registerready.nj.gov and click on the Register Ready icon at the bottom of the page.