Howell Gears Up For Storm, Issues Safety Reminders

HOWELL, NJ — As forecasts continue to call for significant snowfall across much of New Jersey this weekend, Howell 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

Howell residents can sign up for emergency alerts through Everbridge, which Howell officials will use to keep residents informed with local information "during this and any future storm or emergency incident," officials said. Sign up for the alerts here.

If your power goes out, residents should call Jersey Central Power & Light 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. Do not call the police department for updates on when the power will be back on.

Howell has ordinances addressing snow emergencies. Plowing typically begins when there is 4 inches of snow accumulation on the roads.

"Our Department of Public Works (DPW) will be working around the clock to keep our 573 lane miles of roadway safe, and we need your help to make their job easier!" officials said.

NO PARKING ON ROADS: Once snow covers the street, an emergency exists. No vehicles, equipment, or personal property may be parked on any public street or right-of-way. This is critical for our plow drivers, especially in cul-de-sacs. This remains in effect until the snow has ceased and the roads are plowed curb-to-curb. Vehicles in violation are subject to summons and/or towing at the owner's expense.

BASKETBALL HOOPS & EQUIPMENT: All portable sports equipment must be removed from the public right-of-way. These are a major hazard for plow blades.

DO NOT PUSH SNOW INTO STREETS: It is against the law to shovel, blow, or plow snow from your driveway or sidewalk back into the public roadway. This creates hazardous "frozen humps" and undoes the work our crews have already completed.

SIDEWALK CLEARING: Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from abutting sidewalks within 24 hours after the snow has stopped.

"Let’s keep Howell walkable and safe for our neighbors and emergency responders!" authorities said.

Police also urged residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

Other safety reminders

• 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.
• For emergencies, dial 9-1-1. For non-emergency police matters, call 732-938-4575.