County Urges Residents to Conserve Fuel and Water

As recovery efforts from Hurricane Sandy get under way, Middlesex County Freeholder Director Christopher D. Rafano urges residents to limit travel within Middlesex County and conserve fuel and water.

“Currently, road conditions are still quite hazardous with downed trees and power lines, and loss of traffic signals,” Freeholder Director Rafano said.

“For your safety, we are requesting that residents limit their travel as much as possible until further notice. This will allow emergency vehicles and power company crews to quickly and safely respond to emergency calls and conduct power restoration efforts. It also will assist in fuel conservation efforts.”

Water treatment plants throughout the county are not at full capacity due to Hurricane Sandy.

Demand for fuel is up for travel and because residents have been using generators to power their homes. However, fuel delivery to the area is being affected by the impacts from the storm and continued problems on the roads.

Travel to any municipal or  county distribution points for food, water, etc. is considered essential travel. 

“This is in the best interest of all our residents, our emergency management personnel, our first responders and utility crews,” said Rafano.

County officials are coordinating with local municipalities and with the State of New Jersey for overall response and recovery efforts.  The County’s Emergency Operations Center has been staffed with 24-hour coverage since the approach of the storm.

All residents are instructed to contact their Municipal Office of Emergency Management for information about shelters and other resources.

The county continues to operate two regional shelters for residents who cannot go to local shelters:

· Old Bridge Shelter, Carl Sandburg School, 3439 Route 516

· Woodbridge, Woodbridge Community Center, 600 Main St.

 For additional information visit:

www.co.middlesex.nj.us

www.jcpl.com

www.pseg.com

www.njready.gov