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NJ Office of Emergency Management
Colonel Rick Fuentes Major Dennis McNulty
Superintendent, New Jersey State Police
State Director of Emergency Management
Commanding Officer, Emergency Management

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Office of Public Information (609) 882-2000
A/Capt. Frank Davis ext. 6516
A/Lt. Stephen Jones ext. 6513
SFC Julian Castellanos ext. 6515
Sgt. Brian Polite ext. 6514
February 1, 2011

Ice Storms Require Different Preparations

Trenton, NJ - With the potential for significant ice accumulation over the next 24 hours, Colonel Rick Fuentes, Director of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, is asking motorists and residents to prepare for the special hazards that come with a storm of this type.

"Ice storms make driving much more unpredictable than snow storms. Roadways can look fine, but turn from wet to icy without notice," Colonel Fuentes stated.

One serviceman died this morning when his truck slid off the road into trees on his way to McGuire Air Force Base.

Ice buildup on power lines is a real concern for residents who are heavily dependent on electricity, noted Colonel Fuentes. "Now is the time to prepare for potential power outages, not after the lights go out," he said.

In addition to vehicle emergency kits that State Police promoted during the last storm, every resident should have a home emergency kit in the event that a long-term power outage occurs. The kit should contain everything you will need to remain self-sufficient for up to three days. The contents are outlined below.

If you use a life-support system, battery-operated wheelchair, or other power-dependent health equipment, call your utility company, local police, and municipal or county office of emergency management now, to make sure they are aware of your needs during a blackout.

Power Outage Emergency Kit Items for your Home:

  • Three-day supply of ready-to-eat, non-perishable food
  • Manual can opener
  • Three-day supply of water (a total of three gallons per family member)
  • Battery operated radio and extra batteries
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • One-week supply of prescription medications
  • First aid kit
  • Special needs:
    • Infant care items
    • Items for elderly family members
    • Items for relatives with disabilities
  • Store important documents in a waterproof, safe location

In Case You Need to Evacuate:

  • Cash or Travelers Cheques
  • Keep your vehicle's gas tank close to full
  • Keep a portable "go kit" with the basics to transfer to your vehicle
  • Each family member should carry contact information for every other member, and the information of an out-of-state relative in case your family gets separated.

For more detailed and complete information go to http://www.ready.nj.gov/plan/blackout.html

 

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