Heavy, blowing snow, wind, and possible icing are forecast for tomorrow starting before sunrise. While Montgomery Township plowing crews, emergency responders and local utilities are ready, your household's preparation is very important. Flying debris, downed trees and power lines, and power outages are all very real possibilities. Please stay off the roads if at all possible during the storm tomorrow.

Here are some ways residents can assist us and be prepared:

• There is no parking allowed on snow covered streets during and after storms until plowing is completed. (More on snow plowing).
• Do not approach a downed wire. Assume it is live with electricity and report it to PSE&G (see below).
• Remove or otherwise secure all outside materials which may become airborne during high wind gusts.
• Fill up gas tanks and keep a blanket, flashlight & emergency kit in car.
• Keep cell phones charged and flashlights handy in the event of a power outage.
• If you own a generator, check that it is in working order now. Make sure it is properly ventilated when in use.
• Power outage prep may include storing potable and flushing water, and keeping batteries, food, medications & other needed supplies on hand.
• Sign up Ahead to Text Power Outages to PSE&G

This is a good time to think through your household's preparation for an extended emergency and how you can maximize comfort and minimize risks for you and your family. As a general guide, see National Weather Service's "Before, During and After Winter Storms" pages: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/winter/before.shtml

Here are some further tips from Ready.gov:

STAY INFORMED, MAKE A PLAN, BUILD A KIT

*Stay informed - Sign up for local emergency alert systems now, listed at our Emergency Info Channels webpage under Public Safety. Make sure you use credible websites/social media for info on natural hazards and forecasts.

*Communications without Power - You may find yourself without power or internet connection in a storm, so consider a crank or battery-powered radio, and an extra battery pack or cranking charger for mobile devices. Take note of announcements of the opening of local warming/charging stations.

In an emergency, texting will at times work more reliably than wireless calling due to network congestion. Receive emergency info by subscribing to Montgomery's Nixle Police Notices - text your zip code to 888777. Subscribe to Montgomery's Twitter feed without a Twitter account by texting "Follow InMontgomeryNJ" to 40404.

*Make a plan - Develop contingencies for the "what ifs." How will you care for those with special needs? What will you do with your pets?

Sheltering in place is often the best option. But think about where you would go, in advance, if you must evacuate - for example if power was out for an extended period. Develop a family communications plan in advance. Keep a written record of all important phone numbers with your supply kit. (An out-of-area phone number may be more easily reached when circuits are overloaded.) More at http://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan

*Build an emergency kit - Stock a supply of items listed in the below linked Survival Guide from NJOEM such as needed medicines and non-perishable foods (rotate out periodically to keep fresh), bottled water, important papers, and repair/clean-up supplies. Make a portable kit in case you need to evacuate quickly. More info at http://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit

*Consider getting involved - You are needed! Volunteer & receive training in First Aid, CPR, and/or CERT. There are opportunities with the Montgomery Emergency Medical Squad, Fire Co. 1, Fire Co. 2, as well as CERTs (Community Emergency Response Teams).

NJOEM Survival Guide

 Quick Links

Frequently Used Phone Numbers

Main Offices : 908-359-8211
Police (Emergency) : 9-1-1 or 908-359-3222
Recreation : 609-466-3023  
Rec Sports Field Hotline:  800-731-8412
Senior Center : 609-466-0846
Food Pantry : 609-466-1054
Dept. of Public Works : 908-874-3144
Kid Connection : 908-359-2111

Please note that email correspondence with the Township is a public record and may be subject to disclosure under the New Jersey Open Public Records Act.