Hurricane Irene: Township Prepares 'Storm Action Plan'

With Hurricane Irene presumably on its way this weekend,Chatham Township officials prepared a safety briefing in preparation, according to Chatham Township Police Lieutenant Steven Hennelly.

Hennelly explained via email that representatives from Green Village and the Chatham Township Fire Departments, as well as the Chatham Emergency Squad and Department of Public Works, met with members of the Police Department, Office of Emergency Management and Mayor Nicole Hagner to coordinate a storm action plan for all of the agencies.

According to the action plan, the public is requested to only dial 9-1-1 in true cases of emergency. Once the storm begins, police, fire and EMS will prioritize calls, and only respond to those of emergency nature that require immediate attention, Hennelly said.

To report power outages, residents are urged not to contact the police, rather to call the power company at, 1-888-544-4877 (LIGHTSS).

Township officials have also tested generators and assured their supply of gasoline for chainsaws and vehicles in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Irene.

John Pacelli, the head of the Department of Public Works, said flooding and power outages are the primary concerns for Chatham Township during the storm. He recommended that all residents have enough food to last for several days and batteries for flashlights and radios.

Trees could come down in the township, and Pacelli said the chainsaws have been tested in case they are needed.

"We're just going to make sure that all the equipment is fueled up and ready to go," Pacelli said.

Pacelli predicted possible heavy winds and rains, which could cause downed trees and utility lines. "There could be sporadic flooding here and there," Pacelli said. "The best thing residents can do is stay home and inside."

The Chatham Township Police sent out a Nixie Alert Friday morning encouraging all residents to make the following preparations:

• Secure lawn furniture and other items that might become airborne
• Turn freezer to coldest setting and keep the door closed
• Fill car gas tanks
• Have at least a 3-day supply of food and water on hand
• Monitor NOAA weather radio or weather.com
• Report downed wires to the police via 9-1-1
• Report power outage to 1-888-LIGHTSS

Chatham Township Mayor Nicole Hagner and Police Chief John Paton did not immediately respond to requests for comments.