With the prediction of 13 to 17 major storms this season, the office of emergency management has brochures and information available on all types of natural and man-made disasters. The hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, our greatest chance is between September and the end of November. Further information can be obtained by going to www.nhc.gov.

Our department with the Mayor has been reviewing and making the necessary contacts to mitigate flooding problem. Green Street under Route 80 has been jetted and is flowing; a maintence program is in place with the Meadowlands Commission and the Borough of Teterboro.  We are actively pursuing both the ditch along Wesley Street and the Saddle River Ave.

Although we will never stop the flooding we have seen considerable differences since the Huyler Street pump station were installed and maintaining the ditches. You can help by making sure that storm drains in your neighborhood are free and clear of debris, by doing this the water will be able to flow freely.

When the roadway is flooded do not walk, drive through the area. If walking it is known that six inches of moving water can make you fall, if you need to walk go where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground. If floodwaters rise around your vehicle, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground if you can do safely. You and your vehicle can be quickly swept away.

Driving Flood Facts as directed by FEMA. Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water will float many vehicles. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups. Please use caution. All hazard information may be obtained from the FEMA Website, www.fema.gov.

We have developed a special population program which will assist children, seniors, medical and other types of disabilities. It is free program. For information please call our office at 201-440-1815 ext.# 165 or e-mail MichaelSHoem1@aol.com.

We are currently looking for volunteers to create a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Team in the township. These volunteers will be trained in disaster preparations, medical, fire, rescue, stress and other topics. You will be part of the Office of Emergency Management and will be able to assist yourself, neighbors, family and our eyes and ears for any hazard. Again if interested please call our office or the above e-mail.

If we can be of any assistance please don’t hesitate to call. Monthly activity reports are on file with the township meeting minutes. Several articles will be on the web page through the summer so visit the site frequently.

Thank you and have a safe and happy summer. Remember school’s out drive carefully our children are our most valuable possession.

Michael J Ward
Emergency Management Coordinator

Posted on Friday, June 1st, 2007 at 6:25 am | Filed under Town News .