TRENTON, N.J. — As the peak period for hurricane and tropical storm activity in New Jersey arrives, Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes advises County residents to plan and prepare for potential storms this summer and fall.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, but the peak time for hurricane and tropical storm activity in New Jersey is mid-August to late October. When they approach land, tropical storms and hurricanes can be extremely deadly and destructive — even as far inland as Mercer County.
“In Mercer County, we have first-hand experience with how devastating hurricanes and tropical storms can be, as we experienced last September when the remnants of Hurricane Ida wreaked havoc in several of our communities,” Mr. Hughes said. “It’s essential that you and your family be ready before a storm strikes, and not put yourselves or others at risk by waiting until the last minute to prepare.”
The Mercer County Office of Emergency Management suggests taking the following readiness steps in preparation for hurricane season:
• Make a plan
. You may not be at home or with your family when an emergency occurs, so it’s important to have a plan for getting everyone back together in a safe place. The plan should also include what to do if you must shelter at home or evacuate, and emergency contacts both near and far from your home. Make sure your family and everyone involved knows the plan, including children and your emergency contacts.
• Build a kit
. Your emergency preparedness kit should include a stockpile supply of items, consisting of at least a three-day supply of bottled water, non-perishable foods and essential medications set aside for each member of your family and your pets. You can also include important documents and supplies for eating, bathing, safety and entertainment. Have a portable, crank or solar-powered USB charger on hand for your cell phone.
• Stay informed
. Use credible websites and social media to stay informed of breaking news and continued coverage of emergency events. And continue to monitor traditional media sources — TV, newspapers and radio — for information during an emergency. Your local Emergency Management or Emergency Services office will provide you with information about such things as open shelters and evacuation orders. Also register for the Mercer County emergency notification system by visiting www.mercercounty.org and clicking on “Alert Mercer” at the top of the home page.
For more information about emergency preparedness, including making a plan, creating an emergency kit and staying informed, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Ready Campaign at www.ready.gov, or the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management at www.nj.gov/njoem.