FREEHOLD – With summer waning and the storm season building, Monmouth County’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) reminds residents to be ready for storms and other emergencies.

“Following some basics steps and getting ready now means you will be ready for virtually any big weather event or other disaster that may affect Monmouth County,” said Gary McTighe, acting director of the county’s OEM. “Everyone should follow Steps One, Two and Three.”
 

• Step One - Get a Kit of Emergency Supplies - Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days.
• Step Two - Create an Emergency Plan - Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan a way to contact one another and review what you will do in different situations.
• Step Three – Stay Informed - Listen to local radio and TV for the latest information on storms and other emergencies. Review what warning sirens are used in your community to alert residents of major emergencies.

“Preparing makes sense,” said Freeholder William C. Barham, liaison to the County Office of Emergency Management. “The likelihood that you and your family will survive a nor’easter, hurricane or other emergency depends on the preparations that you make now.”

McTighe also recommends that residents consider two additional steps. “Steps Four and Five will help bring your readiness to the next level and are well worth the effort,” said McTighe.

• Step Four – Financial Preparedness – Consider your insurance and financial needs in the event of a disaster. Also, take time to prepare a household inventory.
• Step Five – Consider joining the Citizen Corps – Join others in you community who are ready to provide critical support to first responders and to fellow residents during emergencies. 

Undergoing Citizen Corps training is a great way to feel empowered in the event of any emergency. Additional information about storm and disaster preparations are available on the county’s Web site at www.visitmonmouth.com. The county OEM works closely with federal, state and local partners to prepare for virtually all hazards, natural or manmade, that could affect New Jersey’s families, communities and businesses.