With forecasts for powerful winds expected throughout the Burlington County Area, the Medford Fire Division reminds individuals and families to stay safe and be prepared. Some basic preparation and common-sense safety tips will help ensure safety and help prevent property damage during possible power outages and high winds.

Preparing for High Winds

• Move or secure lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by wind and become a projectile.
• During the storm, draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blown by the wind, the shades will prevent glass from shattering into your home.

If you are caught outside during high winds:

• Take cover next to a building or under a secure shelter
• Stand clear of roadways, as a gust may blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle
• Use handrails where available, and avoid elevated areas such as roofs
• Watch for flying debris. Tree limbs may break and street signs may come loose during strong winds

If you are driving:

• Keep both hands on the wheel and slow down
• Watch for objects blowing across the roadway and into your path
• Keep a safe distance from cars in adjacent lanes, as strong gusts could push a car outside its lane of travel
• Take extra care in a high-profile vehicle such as trucks, vans, SUVs, or when towing a trailer, as these are more prone to being pushed or flipped by high wind gusts
• If winds are severe enough to prevent safe driving, safely pull over onto the shoulder of the road and stop, making sure you are away from trees or other tall objects that could fall onto your vehicle.

Top Safety Tips for a Power Outage

• Assemble essential supplies, including: flashlight, batteries, portable radio, at least one gallon of water, and a small supply of food.
• Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting. Due to the extreme risk of fire, do not use candles during a power outage.
• Use the phone for emergencies only. Listening to a portable radio can provide the latest information.
• Do not call 9-1-1 for information - only call to report a life-threatening emergency. The non-emergency telephone number is 609-654-7511.
• Do not run a generator inside a home or garage. If you use a generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the outlets on the generator. Do not connect a generator to a home’s electrical system.
• Turn off electrical equipment you were using when the power went out. Leave one light on so you know when the power comes back on.
• Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer.
• If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. If unsure, check with your physician or pharmacist.
• Stay focused on the risks of smoke and carbon monoxide. Buy a carbon monoxide alarm if you do not already have one. They are available at most hardware stores. If you have one, check the battery to make sure it is working. If the alarm sounds: get to fresh air by going outside and call 911 to report the emergency.