The brunt of Hurricane Sandy is not forecasted to affect the local area until late Sunday night into Monday morning. Before then, Monmouth County officials are asking residents to do all their preparation so they are ready for what figures to be extended periods of strong winds and heavy rain.
Getting prepared includes having things ready for people of all ages from children to senior citizens as well as making plans for pets if an evacuation becomes necessary. "We are asking all residents to take this weekend to prepare, plan and stay informed," said Freeholder Director John P. Curley. "County staff is working to make sure that we are prepared and can respond effectively, we ask that residents do the same."
Sheriff Shaun Golden said in an emergency situation being prepared can make the difference in keeping people safe. "Think about and plan for what you will do if your power goes out for an extended period of time or school is cancelled for your children and you still need to go to work," he said.
The sheriff also said that residents should only call 911 in an emergency. "Requests for information should be directed to your town, your power company or your other service provider," he said. "Help keep the 9-1-1 lines clear and refer all non-emergencies calls to your local non-emergency numbers." For most towns, he said that is either town hall or the police department.
Residents are also encouraged to develop an emergency plan and contact their individual municipal emergency management offices with specific questions about the storms and their responses. A list of the numbers can be found on the Monmouth County website.
The county will also be providing updates on their Facebook page and Twitter feed.
