Full Notification

The tornado path which usually wreaks havoc on the Midwest has found its way to the Northeast. While Bergen County has been spared, the storm track has hit neighboring counties. Given what seems to be a weather pattern change with respect to tornado occurrences, now is a good time to address preparedness for dangerous high wind weather events.
 
The following are measures that should be considered in case of a tornado alert.
 

• Get indoors. Vehicles are not safe as tornados can toss cars around like they are toys.

 

• Get into the basement, as they are the safest location in the house. If you do not have a basement, the ground level is the next best location.

 

• Hallways and bathrooms are typically safe.  Choose a room with the least number of windows. If you have to be in a room with windows, lie on the floor and cover yourself and family members with blankets, heavy clothing, or a mattress.

 
If there is a tornado, hurricane or tropical storm alert, take advantage of the preparedness warning.  The high winds associated with the aforementioned weather events are likely to take down power lines and cause significant power outages. Be sure to check generators for operation and fuel, gather flashlights and batteries, charge cell phones and other electronic devices, set aside water for household members (three gallons per individual), etc.  In addition, monitor weather reports for situation updates. 
 
Please remember, our pets are members of our families and you need to include them in your emergency plan.
 
The CDC, FEMA and the Red Cross websites provide a host of Tornado preparedness tips.