Community Corner
BLIZZARD 2015: What You Need To Know
When the snow hits, here's what you need to know to deal with it
With the coming blizzard predicted by the National Weather Service to drop anywhere from 18 inches of snow to three feet or even more on New Jersey, here’s a quick guide of who to turn to if you need help:
Q. Where do I report a power outage?
A. Jersey Central Power and Light customers can report outages directly on the company’s website as well as get information on how widespread the outages are and estimated times for power restoration. Public Service Electric & Gas customers can report outages on their website, here.
Find out what's happening in Toms Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
JCP&L also has a free smartphone app (download it here) or you can report an outage via text message; get started by texting REG to 544487.
Q. Where do I report a problem with my natural gas service?
Find out what's happening in Toms Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A. New Jersey Natural Gas maintains a toll-free 24-hour gas leak hotline: 800-GAS-LEAK (800-427-5325).
Q. Where can I go if my home has no heat?
A. Check with your township officials for information on warming centers if you do not have a friend or relative you can stay with. Do not try to heat your home with heat from a gas oven or stove, due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you have elderly friends, neighbors or relatives, be sure to check in on them and ensure they are safe and have heat and power. The risk of death due to cold is significantly higher for those 75 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Q. Will my town be picking up trash and recyclables?
A. Check with your town, but many have already postponed garbage and recycling pickup scheduled for Tuesday because trucks will be utilized for snow removal.
Q. Will I get mail delivery?
A. Whether mail gets delivered will likely depend on when the streets are clear enough for U.S. Postal Service personnel to get through.
In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.
SHOVELING TIPS
When you go out to shovel, keep these safety tips from the National Safety Council in mind:
- Individuals over the age of 40, or those who are relatively inactive, should be especially careful.
- If you have heart trouble, do not shovel without a doctor’s permission.
- Do not shovel after eating or while smoking.
- Take it slow! Pace yourself. Be sure to stretch out and warm up before taking on the task.
- Shovel only fresh snow.
- Push the snow as you shovel.
- Do not pick up too much at once.
- Lift with your legs bent, not your back. Keep your back straight.
- Do not work to the point of exhaustion. If you run out of breath, take a break.
- Dress warmly.
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