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Residents Also Urged to be “Weather Ready” Prior to Arrival of Hurricane Season
OCEAN COUNTY – SUEZ announced that it is prepared to take all necessary measures during the upcoming hurricane season which begins June 1 and lasts through November 30. According to the National Weather Service, this time-frame is most favorable for strong storm or tropical-like climate development.
“We watch the weather very carefully and we’ll be prepared to make any operating adjustments necessary to maintain the integrity of our facilities and water supplies,” said Jim Mastrokalos, Director of Operations. “When the National Weather Service predicts a storm, our goal is to make certain we’re prepared to provide uninterrupted service and respond as quickly as possible to any emergency situations.”
According to Mastrokalos, specific measures include testing backup generators, ensuring that water storage facilities are full and maintaining an extra supply of water treatment compounds. Company officials also work closely with local emergency response teams to coordinate emergency preparation and response activities.
“Many local agencies and organizations team together with SUEZ to prepare for hurricanes and other severe storms,” said Mastrokalos. “We also urge our customers be weather ready by checking their personal emergency preparedness plans,” he added.
Mastrokalos said that customers should be sure to protect their property and ensure they have emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries and food before an emergency strikes.
“While SUEZ will continue to do our best to keep the water flowing during an emergency, we encourage our customers to store extra tap water in food-grade storage containers,” said Mastrokalos.
Before filling containers with drinking water, they should be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water, then rinsed with clean water and sealed with original tops. Place a “drinking water” label on the containers and include a storage date. Be careful not to store containers in direct sunlight or in areas near toxic substances such as gasoline or chemicals. Additional, helpful emergency preparedness tips are available at fema.gov.
If an emergency action plan is activated, customers can obtain updated information by calling 877-565-1456, visiting mysuezwater.com or SUEZ Water South Jersey social media channels.