Forks, Palmer Prepared for Irene

They say they're ready.

Officials in Forks and Palmer townships are prepared to deal with Hurricane Irene just like they are for any expected storm, be it summer or winter.

As all eyes watch the path of and the potential wrath it might deliver to the Lehigh Valley, authorities believe they are prepared to weather this storm.

"We are going to make the township as safe as we can," said Demar Grube, Palmer Township's fire commissioner and emergency management director.

Grube said manpower in the 30-member volunteer department will be on hand to assist with road closures, check water problems, provide pumps for residents who have to deal with flooded basements and keep in constant contact with Northampton County's emergency management team.

"If we can't handle it here, we'll ask the county for assistance," said Grube, who has put the township's emergency operating plan in place.

He's concerned about roads and homes along Bushkill Creek, especially if the forecast of more than 4 inches of rain is accurate.

But what he's more worried about are the possible 60-80 mph winds that Irene might bring. "That's a whole different ball game," the fire commissioner said. "Then we're dealing with downed trees and power lines and blocked roads."

Manager Richard Schaedter said township departments -- police, fire, emergency management, public works -- are prepared for Irene.

"This isn't the first time we've ever had a potential storm," he said. "We have the drill down pretty well. Our barricades are prepared, our personnel is on call and we've held public safety meetings where we go over situations like this."

Schaedter said the main focus will be on Delaware Drive () and Kesslersville Road -- two areas prone to flooding. Township officials also will focus on Bushkill Creek.

"We feel fine," he said. "We have top-notch people who have a number of years of experience and are well-prepared, and our communications are terrific."

Palmer Township Police Chief Bruce Fretz said his officers will be deployed wherever they are needed.

He said the equipment is set and generators are available to operate key traffic lights if the electricity goes out.

"We hope it won't be as bad as what they are saying," the chief said.

Supervisors Chairman Dave Colver said emergency crews are ready to handle storm drains that clog with leaves and sticks and lead to flooded roads, and the police department and other emergency personnel and road crews will be ready around the clock.

"There's only so much you can do," Colver said. "We have to be ready for it. And then we'll do the best we can."

Palmer Township Supervisor Ann-Marie C. Panella said residents should be mindful about getting what they need at supermarkets before the storm arrives and also securing their outside lawn furniture.

"People tend to forget about that," she said. "But 70-to-80-mph winds will pick up a lawn chair and hit a window. That could cause a lot of damage."