5 Ways to Prepare for Hurricane Irene

Hurricane Irene, a now-Category 3 hurricane as designated by the National Weather Service of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is expected to possibly hit our area Sunday afternoon and evening, with the storm continuing into Monday morning.

Local police departments across the state of New Jersey have begun warning residents to prepare early for the storm, which may cause electrical damage, damaged trees, high winds and flooding.

"Meteorologists are calling this hurricane one of the most significant weather events to hit the east coast of the United States in decades. They are recommending that people begin taking action immediately to prepare for significant damage caused by high wind and flooding rain," the Denville Police Department warned in a Nixle alert sent out at 8:40 a.m. Thursday.

Here are five ways the Denville Police Department recommends residents prepare for the storm:

1. You Should Have All Cell Phones Charged and Spare Batteries For Electronics: You will need your cell phone available in the event of an emergency, so make sure to charge ahead. You will also want to prepare flashlights and a battery-operated radio (if you have one) so you can see and have updates on the storm.
2. You Should Pack a "Go Bag": The police department advises that you put necessary items, such as clean clothing, medication, food and water, in a bag so that you can quickly evacuate your residence if need be.
3. You Should Have Plenty of Food and Water on Hand: Stock up in advance, as leaving your home may be a dangerous thing to do in the middle of the storm. Particularly stock up on water in case utilities are affected.
4. You Should Make Sure Your Vehicle is Filled With Gasoline: There may not be an opportunity to stop for gas in the event that you do have to leave your home or town. Fill up your tank before Sunday if you can.
5. You Should Make Sure Your Generator is Working: Check this out prior to Sunday if you do have one. You'll need it if power goes out.
6. BONUS: You Should Bring All Outdoor Furniture Indoors: To avoid your furniture being damaged by the storm, the police department is asking residents to bring their items inside before the event.

If you experience an emergency during the storm, call 9-1-1 or the township's police department:

 973-263-4300