Toms River Gears Up For Storm, Issues Safety Reminders

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Forecasts continue to call for significant snowfall across much of New Jersey this weekend, including in Toms River.

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

Toms River officials issued reminders to residents, including urging people to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary and to remove vehicles from the streets to make way for plows and emergency vehicles.

"The storm may bring heavy ice that could cause downed power lines. Avoid contact with downed power lines and report them to the police department immediately," the township said.

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.

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

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.

"Please clear sidewalks and avoid shoveling snow into the street. Check on elderly neighbors and be safe out there!" Toms River officials said.