From the OEM: Functional Needs Program Procedures
SOUTH HACKENSACK OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
FUNCTIONAL NEEDS PROGRAM PROCEDURES
The South Hackensack Office of Emergency Management annually updates a list of residents who need help when a disaster or severe weather threatens. When a storm appears to be a threat to our area or community a call containing a voice message 24 to 36 hours before the storm is expected will be sent to the special need client. This message advises the functional need client that there is a threat they should be aware of. This message may also suggest action that you should take. Once you received this call tune to radio, news stations or NOAA weather radio for further updates.
When it appears likely that our area or community will be impacted by the event, the functional need client will receive a second call from a live operator updating the situation and advising when & what actions should be taken.
If there is an emergency or incident other than a predicted storm you will be notified via a phone call if time allows and as a back- up route alerting. Township vehicles will go through the town announcing the emergency and actions to take.
If transportation is needed it will be sent to take the client to a functional needs unit at the shelter, the caller will give an approximate time. The client and caregiver who will assist must be ready to go when the transportation arrives. Busses, Vans, Cars etc. will be moving people in a short amount of time through crowed conditions and must stay on schedule. FUNCTIONAL NEEDS TRANSPORTATION IS NOT A TAXI SERVICE.
If you refuse transportation when it arrives you may not get another opportunity to leave, this will put you at a greater increase risk.
Functional need clients who need transportation assistance will be taken to a designated shelter (Decision of American Red Cross) or to a medical facility. If you have transportation and are registered with our special needs program we highly recommend you go to this shelter if you leave your home and have nowhere to go. You may call 201-440-1815 ext. 100 or 130 or the South Hackensack Police Dept. and location will be given.
You should take everything you will need for 72 hours with you especially medications, personal care items & important documents as well as a small amount of cash, as ATM machines may not work.
REMEMBER: Pets are not allowed in Public Shelters including functional needs unit with the exception of a Seeing Eye animal. Make pre arrangements with a relative outside the area to take care of your animals. There is no smoking, alcohol, drugs or weapons allowed in the shelters only drugs allowed are prescribed drugs.
A NOAA weather alert radio is available for purchase at Radio Shack, Electronic Store, Department Stores and other locations. Cost range in the area of $25.00 to $75.00.
Do not call 9-1-1 for storm information; 9-1-1 is only for emergencies. Call Town Hall at 201-440-1815 ext. 100 or 165. Only call Police for emergencies. Listen to T.V. & radio for news & weather updates as well as monitor the NOAA radio system.
The following websites will provide preparedness information:
www.redcross.org/disaster www.fema.gov
www.ready.gov www.southhackensacknj.org
The following attached documents are for your use:
- Personal Assessment Form
- Checklist for people with mobility problems ARC 4497
- Family Disaster Plan ARC 4466
- Summary checklist for personal disaster preparedness
- Summary checklist for disaster supplies
- Disaster Supply Kits and other essential supplies
- Emergency Information Kit
Other information or questions on hazards, weather related incidents can be obtained from our office at 227 Phillips Ave or by calling 201-440-1815 ext.165.
Yours in Preparedness
Michael J Ward
OEM Coordinator