County Officials Urge Safety As Next Storm Approaches

The following information was submitted by the County of Union.

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders reminded residents to be
aware that the nor’easter predicted for today and Thursday will bring high winds, rain, coastal flooding and possibly snow to the region, creating the potential for new power outages and other hazards.

“Union County residents have really shown a lot of heart in the past week, and I know that we can pull through the next storm together,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “Please take steps to prepare, and check on a friend or neighbor, too.”

Residents should make sure they have emergency supplies on hand including fresh batteries, water, non-perishable food such as bread, dried fruit and peanut butter, and any needed medications or medical supplies.

Residents who need to stay overnight in a shelter can call the non-emergency phone number of their local police department to find out if space is available in their community.

The Union County Regional Evacuation Center in Cranford is also available for overnight shelter or for a place to warm up during the day. County personnel have been working with the Red Cross to staff the shelter, and the Salvation Army has provided cooked meals.

The shelter is located at the Cranford Community Center at 220 Walnut Ave. Persons planning to stay overnight should call ahead at 908-709-7283 (press “2” for the shelter representative).

“If you’ve been coping with power outages at home all week, the nor’easter may create new challenges for you,” said Mirabella. “Please stay safe and don’t hesitate to use a public shelter if you need one.”

Mirabella also advised residents to exercise renewed caution when driving after the nor’easter. The new storm may loosen trees and branches that were already weakened by Hurricane Sandy, creating new roadblocks and hazards.

“We’re asking motorists to take care and be alert for people working in the roads, including County personnel and crews from utility companies, FEMA and the National Forest Service,” said Mirabella.

County residents are also reminded to run generators only outdoors. Generators must be placed at least 25 feet away from windows to prevent dangerous fumes from seeping indoors. 

To donate food or cash for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, visit the New Jersey Community FoodBank at njfoodbank.org or call 908-355-3663.