01/24/2026
Good afternoon, Vernon!
With the incoming winter storm, we would like to take this opportunity to remind our community of some important safety tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe throughout (and after) the storm.
- Before the storm, make sure all of your electronic devices are fully charged in case of loss of power. Make sure your vehicles have a full tank of gas rather than trying to find an open gas station during the storm if you need to go somewhere. Take a trip to the grocery store and stock up on non perishable food items, batteries and candles.
- During the storm, if you need to be outside, dress in layers. Watch for signs of hypothermia and frost bite. If you lose power during the storm, DO NOT RUN YOUR GENERATORS INDOORS. Try to clear any snow from vents and exhaust pipes and watch for signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you feel a headache, nausea or dizziness, call 9-1-1 immediately.
- After the storm, watch for icy and snow covered surfaces. While shoveling, take frequent breaks and do not overwork yourself. Use caution while driving as there may still be icy roadways. Stay alert for delayed injuries or signs of illness from any slips or falls.
Some key points from V.E.M.S:
- Falls are the most common call type after a storm. Falls are high risk for head injuries, bone fractures and loss of consciousness. Please use extra caution and use handrails when possible.
- DO NOT overwork yourself when shoveling. Take frequent breaks and STOP IMMEDIATELY IF YOU START EXPERIENCING CHEST PAIN, SHORTNESS OF BREATH, DIZZINESS OR NAUSEA and call 9-1-1. These are all signs of a cardiac related emergency, and shoveling is cardiac exertion.
- Do not push, shovel or plow snow into the roadway. State, County and Local DPW's will be working extremely hard to keep the roadways clear and they cannot do that with you adding to their workload.
- Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Give the plow crews space to work and make every effort to stay out of their way. It makes their job easier, and it keeps you safe.
- If at any moment you feel you are experiencing a medical emergency that may be storm/cold related, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Vernon Emergency Medical Services will have several ambulances staffed and strategically placed across town to ensure a rapid response during the duration of the storm.
The Vernon Police Communications Center is fully prepared for the expected call volume, so if you have an emergency, do not hesitate to call 9-1-1. For non emergency matters, questions or concerns, Vernon Police can be reached at 973-764-6155.
Vernon Township Fire Dept.. Co # 1, McAfee Fire Department, Highland Lakes Fire Department and Pochuck Valley Vol Fire Dept are also prepared to respond to any fire and rescue related calls. If you suspect a fire, carbon monoxide or rescue emergency, call 9-1-1 to request a response from the fire department.
We hope you all stay safe and stay warm. Rest assured that the emergency services of Vernon Township are prepared and ready to assist you if the need arises.
