MEDIA CONTACT: Julie Willmot
(609) 278-7137

TRENTON, N.J. - September is National Emergency Preparedness Month, and Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes is advising residents to make sure they are prepared for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities.

Hughes said that Hurricane Irene’s impact last summer served as a reminder that everyone has the responsibility to be prepared for both predicted and unexpected emergencies.

“Being prepared means knowing what to do before, during and after an emergency,” Hughes said. “Everyone can take steps to minimize the impact on their families and their businesses.”

Hughes advises residents to make the following preparations:
  • Put together a kit of emergency supplies that includes a three-day supply of canned, non-perishable, ready-to-eat food; a three-day supply of water (a total of 3 gallons per family member); a battery-operated radio and extra batteries; a flashlight and extra batteries; a first aid kit; and special medical needs.
  • Make a plan for what you and your family will do during an emergency. Know how you’ll contact each other, where everyone will meet and what you’ll do in various situations. An emergency plan should also include a comprehensive contact list that includes updated school and health care information as well as family information.
  • Stay informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur in your community and their appropriate responses. Also register for the Alert-MercerCounty emergency notification system at https://mercercounty.onthealert.com.
  • Get involved. Find out how you can promote preparedness in your community.

For more information, visit the State Office of Emergency Management website, www.ready.nj.gov/, or the Mercer County website, www.mercercounty.org.