WINTER FREEZE
Winter storms pose serious threats to people, pets and property. Extreme cold, freezing rain, snow and strong winds can be especially dangerous. Take precautions to protect your family and your home.
Before the storm:
Keep space heaters away from flammable materials, NEVER leave them unattended.
Bring pets indoors.
When using supplemental heating sources such as fireplaces and kerosene space heaters, make sure you have proper ventilation and a carbon monoxide detector in place. Always take your space heater outside to fill it.
Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries every six months.
Move all vehicles inside the garage if possible. Never leave a vehicle running with the garage doors down.
Prepare an emergency survival kit: battery powered radio, blankets, sleeping bags, first aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, medications, baby items, three day supply of water, non-perishable food and pet items.
Insulate all exposed water pipes outside the home.
During the storm:
Stay inside.
Close off unoccupied rooms in the home.
DO NOT use charcoal burning devices.
Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers as needed to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.
Set the thermostat in your house no lower than fifty-five degrees.
Allow a slow trickle of water to flow especially if the faucet is on an exterior wall. (Be sure both the hot and cold water faucets are flowing.)
Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes and appliances near exterior walls.
Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids and eat high calorie foods.
After the storm:
Never try to thaw a frozen pipe with an open flame or torch. Shut off water and call a licensed plumber.
Clear walkways and sidewalks to prevent injury, but use caution to avoid overexertion.
Identify possible damage to your home.
Report damage, such as broken pipes and downed tree branches or power lines to the utility company, if appropriate. Avoid the area to prevent personal injury.
Do not drive unless the roads have been cleared by snow plows. If you need transportation for a critical medical treatment (i.e.. cancer treatment, dialysis, etc.) or a critical prescription filled, call the Ocean Township Police at (609) 693-4007.
For additional information regarding disasters or emergencies in Ocean County
contact the Ocean County Sheriff's Department, Office of Emergency Management (732) 341-3451 or (800) 331-8152
