The Alternative Press

SCOTCH PLAINS/FANWOOD, NJ – The National Weather Service forecast calls for snow beginning this morning, mixing with rain in the afternoon, then turning into heavy snow tonight into Saturday. Up to 14 inches of snow is forecast by the time it's over. Winds may gust up to 30 MPH. Blizzard conditions possible along coastal regions.

Scotch Plains Mayor Kevin Glover and Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr have both posted messages to residents concerning the storm.

Scotch Plains

In anticipation of a major snowstorm that may hit our Township beginning Friday evening February 8, I want you to know that our Department of Public Works and Office of Emergency Management have made the necessary preparations to keep our streets open and safe.

We would request that residents refrain from driving during the peak hours of the storm to allow crews to remove snow and ice in an efficient manner. Wherever, possible parking off the street will make the snow removal process more effective.

For updates related to the storm visit the Township’s website www.scotchplainsnj.com, via a Township reverse e-Mail, and on Comcast and Verizon channels 34 and 22 respectively.  For storm related issues, such as blocked streets, downed trees, etc please call our Police Desk 908-322-7100. We will also be sending regular storm related updates to the Alternative Press and Scotch Plains Fanwood Patch. The

Township is now utilizing a reverse 9-1-1 system. In the event of an emergency that requires immediate notification, you will receive an automated phone message.

While we do not expect and are hoping that we will not have major power outages stemming from this storm, let me suggest that you take the necessary precautions, checking on your supply of batteries,

flashlights etc. to keep your family safe and comfortable. The following link will take you to an American

Red CrossWinter Storm preparation page:

www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/winterstorm.

Stay safe and we will do our best to keep you updated.

Kevin Glover, Mayor, The Township of Scotch Plains

Fanwood Preparations Underway

The Fanwood Police and Fire Departments, Rescue Squad and Department of Public Works are gearing up for snow and wind conditions. Residents are urged to stay off the roads as much as possible. PLEASE DO NOT PARK ON THE STREET TO FACILITATE SNOW REMOVAL. If the winds really kick up, power outages are possible. Be prepared with flashlights, pull out the extra blankets and have a plan for a possible power interruption.

SCHOOLS: EARLY DISMISSAL TODAY

SPF Schools will follow a single session schedule today. Dismissal times will be: High School 12:08 pm, Middle Schools 12:20 pm and Elementary, Pre-K-4 at 12:40 p.m. No lunches will be served and YMCA Aftercare has been cancelled. All after school activities are also cancelled.

COMMUNICATIONS: WE'RE KEEPING IN TOUCH

Watch this website and Community TV (Comcast Channel 35, Fios Channel 24) for updates. If you haven't done so already, sign up for Fanwood Email Alerts, visit our Facebook page and sign up for Union County First Alert. It's all free! All these devices will help you stay informed through the storm.

PSE&G IS GEARING UP

PSE&G says the utility is preparing for possible power outages by taking these steps:

-Ensuring that all available personnel are ready to respond beginning Friday.

-Arranging for contractors, including tree crews, to assist the utility's own skilled workforce.

-Ensuring that additional supplies, such as poles, transformers and other pole-top equipment, are on hand.

-Ensuring that all vehicles are fueled and ready to go.

-Testing generators at utility locations.

Coordinating with county and municipal emergency management personnel to inform them of outages and expedite restoration efforts.

KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR NEIGHBORS

We found that neighbors helping each other was one of our greatest assets during and after Hurricane Sandy. Please pay special attention to the very young and the very old.