Manchester Gears Up For Storm, Issues Safety Reminders

MANCHESTER, NJ — As forecasts continue to call for significant snowfall across much of New Jersey this weekend, Manchester Township officials are issuing more reminders to residents about coping with the storm.

Gov. Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency for all of New Jersey as the National Weather Service forecasts on Friday afternoon continued to call for at least 6 inches of snow across most of the state up to 16 inches from Saturday evening into Sunday.

Icing of the roads is a concern as well, the weather service said.

Read more: New Snow, Ice Totals Projected As ‘Dangerous’ Track Shifts For NJ’s Weekend Storm

With the declaration of the state of emergency, Manchester Township officials announced that Monday's Township Council meeting will be held via Zoom. The Zoom link for the 6 p.m. meeting is here.

The meeting agenda is available on the township website.

Township officials also said the township's Office of Emergency Management will be monitoring storm conditions throughout the weekend.

Officials "will remain in contact with Jersey Central Power & Light and other utility providers. If necessary, information regarding warming centers will be provided," the township said.

If your power goes out, residents should call JCP&L at 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) to report the outage. Power outages also can be reported on the company's website, and residents can monitor outages on the website as well. Residents should not call the police for power restoration updates.

Once the snow begins, residents should move all vehicles off the streets and into driveways to allow plow trucks to safely and effectively clear the roads.

Plowing typically begins when there is 4 inches of snow accumulation on the roads.

Police also urged residents to stay off the roads. "If you must drive, slow down and allow extra stopping distance. Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the roof, lights, and windows," the police department said.

Safety reminders

• Charge phones and devices and have flashlights ready in case of power outages.
• Never use generators, grills, or alternative heat sources indoors.
• Make sure carbon monoxide alarms are working. Replace batteries if needed.
• Clear snow from any dryer vents and furnace exhaust vents to prevent dangerous gas buildup inside your home."
• Never put your hands near snowblower blades. Turn the machine OFF and use a tool to clear jams.
• Shoveling is strenuous. If you have a cardiac history or aren't used to intense exercise, take breaks or ask for help.
• If you have a fire hydrant on your property, remember to clear out around it so firetrucks can access it quickly in an emergency.

"Please check on elderly neighbors and anyone who may need assistance," Manchester officials said. "For the most up-to-date information during the storm, follow us on social media and sign up for Nixle alerts."