Manalapan OEM: Latest Post-Hurricane Info

Office of Emergency Management Coordinator, Chief Richard Hogan, met with the OEM team leaders and the Manalapan Township Committeeon Wednesday, Oct. 31 to review the current Township infrastructure situation and outline an action plan for clean up in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, according to OEM Public Informations Officer Judith Drucker.

• All Manalapan schools will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 1.
• Future Sanitation company will begin garbage pick-up for residents scheduled for Monday/Thursday garbage pick-up. They will service as many residents as possible depending upon road conditions and fuel availability.
• JCP&L is reporting that power restoration is ongoing and the process is beginning with the safe removal of downed power lines and electric poles. They estimate restoration of power within 7 to 10 days. 
• The public must heed a strong danger warning issued not to go near downed poles or wires. They may appear to be dead lines but surges can occur with the use of residential generators causing the wires to go live. Do not go near downed wires or attempt to cut or remove tree limbs touching them.
• Residents in need of prescription refills can go to Target in Howell. Their phone number is: 732-363-7707. As of this update, there are currently no pharmacies open in Manalapan to fill prescriptions.
• The public water system has not been compromised by the storm and all municipal water is safe to drink. The town is on Emergency Conservation Alert because the water treatment facility is now being powered by generators. Due to fuel shortages the potential for reduced water processing may become a reality in the days to come. Residents are urged to conserve water usage and flush toilets conservatively. For residents with well water they may consider using pool water to flush if available.
• Mobile phone charging center is available to residents by calling 732-446-3200 for location and timing. Ice is also available, in limited quantities. Ice is only for refrigeration purposes and not for consumption. Residents must bring their own containers. 
• Water is available at the Manalapan Recreation Center and in the parking lot of Walgreens, Woodward Rd. Residents must bring their own water containers. 
• A resident shelter is available. Please call Town Hall at 732-446-3200 for location and specific information. Residents must bring their own food, pillows and blankets and personal hygiene products and all medications.
• Residential Generator usage: generators must be located outside of the home so that home dwellers do not succumb to CO2 poisoning. The generator should not be located near an open window close to the home. Do not place generators in an attached garage. Keep generators in a non-public area that is safely secured. Signs and symptoms of CO2 poisoning are: flu-like symptoms, dizziness, headaches, mental confusion, fainting; carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to death.  
• Special needs residents can contact the Township for help at 732-446-3200.