Volume 7 - Issue 3 - 2022

Last year, Hurricane Ida left thousands without power and scrambling to find gasoline for generators. Three years ago, the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly spread worldwide, leaving many confined to their homes. To ensure you and your loved ones have the necessary resources and plans in place in the event of an emergency, here are 6 must-have items you should have in your emergency kit: be prepared The 6 must-have items the Middlesex County Office of Emergency Management recommends

Let’s Walk!

watch vs warning

The Office of Aging and Disabled Services hosted its annual Senior Health and Fitness Walk at Roosevelt Park in September. In addition to a walk around the park and group exercises conducted by instructors, each year the event boasts health screenings, raffles, boxed lunches, and free t-shirts. Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/aginganddisabled to learn more about events hosted by this office, including next year’s walk and the annual Senior Art Contest.

WATCH: Be Ready!

Conditions are right for severe weather to form. Listen to weather updates and be prepared to act.

WARNING: Take Action!

Severe weather is close or already in your area. Get to a shelter even if you can’t see danger.

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FIRST-AID KIT Hospitals during and after a disaster can be hard to get to. Ensure you can provide immediate care to an injured family member by packing essentials disinfectant wipes. This also includes an additional supply of medication and a detailed listing of your current prescriptions. like bandages, ointment, and

PET SUPPLIES From medication to their favorite toy for comfort, make sure every member of your family is covered including your pets.

COPIES OF IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records should be saved electronically. Add these documents to a waterproof, portable container if you have hard copies

FLASHLIGHTS While we’ve gotten accustomed to utilizing our phone’s flashlight for convenience, it’s important to have a few flashlights and extra batteries. A solar charging device for your cell phone can come in handy when the power is out!

NON- PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS Ensure your emergency kit has at least a three-day supply of non-perishable, nutrient-dense foods. Dried fruit, canned tuna fish, peanut butter, protein bars, and beef jerky are good options. Don’t forget to pack a manual can opener.

CASH A small amount of cash on hand will be useful in the event of power failures and if credit card readers/ systems go down.

Lessons Learned

In October, the Middlesex County and Union County Prosecutor’s Offices welcomed two members of the Coral Springs Police Department located in Florida to present key findings and lessons learned from a case study of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas School Shooting which took place in Parkland, Florida. Middlesex and Union County officials -- including law enforcement; educators and administrators; and emergency first responders – attended the presentation.