The Morris County Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor the approaching storm and provide updates as needed:   The latest forecast data which has been provided to us suggests that the snow will begin after midnight tonight. It is anticipated that any snow this evening into early tomorrow morning will be scattered and light. We are gearing up for additional snow, sleet and ice accumulations which will become steadier and heavier towards Friday evening as the colder air moves in resulting in the bulk of the anticipated snow accumulations. Forecasts suggest that this will be a long duration and intense storm which will likely last over a 24 hour time frame. 

Tips For Preparing For A Snow Storm: 

1 – Go food shopping and make sure you have enough of the important items so you don’t have to go out and travel during the storm. We suggest a three day supply inclusive of paper goods. If you have a pet, make sure you have adequate supplies (they are family too)
2 – Baby supplies (if applicable)
3 – Fill your gas tank. This adds weight to the vehicle which will provide better traction in the snow if driving becomes absolutely necessary. In addition, we learned from Sandy that if the gas station looses power, you won’t be able to access gas unless the station has a generator.
4- Make sure your wiper blades are in proper working condition.
5 – Charge cell phones and other important electronics. Minimize use during the storm in the event that we experience a prolonged storm that impacts power.
6- Make sure you have alternate lighting sources in the event of a power loss. Battery operated lanterns and flashlights are important items to have on hand.  Test all the devices to make sure they are operational and maintain extra batteries.
7- Increase the cold setting in the refrigerator, In the event of a power loss, food will be maintained for a longer period.
8 – In the event of a power loss, use a cooler to minimize the opening and closing of the refrigerator/freezer.
9- Have extra bottled water on hand within your residence. The general rule is a three day supply of water, one gallon per person per day.
10- Have a First Aid Kit on hand in the event of a minor injury and a prolonged emergency response as a result of weather conditions.
11- Fire extinguisher
12- Adequate supply of medications.
13- Multipurpose tool, with pliers and a screw driver.
14- Maintain a battery operated radio or other device (weather radio) to stay tuned to news and other important local information which may be broadcasted by the media and local stations.
15- Maintain sleeping bags or other types of warm items in the event that you lose heat.
16- Maintain a good shovel – Residents who are capable of shoveling could assist seniors and other neighbors who are unable to clear a path to the residence. This will assist local emergency responders in the event that they respond to the residence.
17- Residents can assist the local Fire Department by making sure that fire hydrants are accessible with the snow cleared.
18- Residents can assist local road crews by making sure that residential storm drains are cleared of snow.