Hurricane Sandy Update

{Monday at 12:30pm}:
Newark Public Schools - closed Monday AND Tuesday
NJ TRANSIT - Rail, Light Rail, Buses suspended til further notice. All stations are closed.
All Newark Colleges - are closed today.

{Sunday at 6:30pm} With Sandy approaching Newark - here's an updated round-up to what has been posted:
 

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

- NJ TRANSIT will implement a gradual system-wide shutdown of all bus, rail, light rail and Access Link service, starting 4pm Sunday and continuing through 2am on Monday morning.
- All other NJ TRANSIT bus service will be suspended effective 2 a.m. Monday, October 29, 2012.
- Newark light rail services will be suspended effective 2 a.m. Monday, October 29, 2012.
- Indoor waiting rooms at major rail hubs such as Newark Penn Station, Secaucus Junction and Trenton Transit Center will remain open to provide customers with shelter during the storm.
- PATH suspended at midnight tonight, Sunday
- Amtrack service suspended at midnight tonight, Sunday
 

SCHOOLS

Newark Public Schools are closed Monday
Essex County Vocational HS closed Monday
Essex County College (classes and offices) are closed Monday
 

SHELTERS

City of Newark will open a temporary shelter in partnership with the American Red Cross for persons displaced from their homes, at the John F. Kennedy Recreation Center, Central Ward, 211 West Kinney Street, with the entrance on Howard Street. Pet friendly.
Beginning Sunday, October 28th at 7pm, Essex County Codey Arena will be utilized as a relief center for residents who lose power in their homes or need to reach a safe place. Accommodations for pets will also be provided at the Arena.
 

OTHER PLACES CLOSED

Stadium of Screams closed tonight, Sunday
Newark Museum closed Monday
Newark Library and all branches will be closed Monday & Tuesday
Turtle Back Zoo closed Monday & Tuesday
Essex County Parks closed Monday
 

FIND OUT MORE

Residents can report hurricane-related incidents or concerns to (973) 733-4311, operational beginning at 6pm, Sunday and will remain open until further notice.
For continuous information on hurricane safety tips and updates, residents can also tune to NWK-TV, Channel 78, the City's Government Access Channel.
NJ Office of Emergency Management
National Hurricane Center
 

HURRICANE TIPS

The City of Newark recommends the following safety measures to prepare for a hurricane: "¢ Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8" marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.

• Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Consider building a safe room.
• Prepare a basic emergency supply kit which contains one gallon of water per person and food for at least three days, prescription medication for three days, a non-electric can opener, moist towelettes, garbage bags, flashlights and extra batteries, a battery-powered to receive weather reports, local maps, a first aid kit and a whistle to signal for help.
• Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
• Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
• Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
• The City of Newark will provide drinking water quality updates to residents.

You should evacuate under the following conditions: "¢ If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.

• If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure"”such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
• If you live in a high-rise building"”hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
• If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
• If you feel you are in danger.

If you are unable to evacuate, go to your safe room. If you do not have one, follow these guidelines: "¢ Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
"¢ Close all interior doors"”secure and brace external doors.
"¢ Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again.
"¢ Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
"¢ Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.

Have Disaster Supplies on Hand "¢ Flashlight and extra batteries.

• Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
• First aid kit and manual.
• Emergency food and water.
• Nonelectric can opener.
• Essential medicines.
• Cash and credit cards.
• Sturdy shoes.

Develop an Emergency Communication Plan "¢ In case family members are separated from one another, develop a plan for reuniting after the disaster.
Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.