Emergency Preparedness in South Orange

Brought to you by the South Orange Office of Emergency Management (OEM)

Emergencies can happen quickly and with little or no warning. The most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to be prepared, stay calm, and follow instructions from local emergency personnel.

The South Orange OEM is committed to helping our community prepare for all types of emergencies — from severe weather and flooding to power outages and health crises. Use the guidance below to get started.

🛠️ Step 1: Make a Family Emergency Plan

Start by discussing these key questions with your family, friends, or household members:

• How will we receive emergency alerts and warnings?
  Sign up for South Orange Alerts at southorange.org and enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your mobile phone.
• What is our shelter plan?
  Know where you’ll go if you need to stay indoors or shelter-in-place. Identify rooms without windows or higher levels during flooding.
• What is our evacuation route?
  South Orange’s designated evacuation route is South Orange Avenue westbound. Follow blue evacuation signs on traffic poles.
• How will we communicate if separated?
  Designate an out-of-area emergency contact and identify a primary meeting location outside the immediate neighborhood.
• Do we have an up-to-date emergency supply kit?
  Prepare or update your kit with at least 3 days’ worth of supplies. Include items specific to your household’s needs.
• Do we need to modify plans based on public health guidance?
  Follow updates from the CDC, NJ Department of Health, and local health departments.

🧩 Step 2: Account for Specific Needs in Your Household

Every household is unique. Tailor your emergency plans and supplies to meet the specific needs of:

• Infants, toddlers, and elderly family members
• Individuals with medical conditions or who require prescription medications or durable medical equipment
• Persons with disabilities or limited mobility
• Pets or service animals
• Individuals with dietary restrictions
• Non-English speakers or multilingual families
• Households with school-aged children (coordinate with school emergency plans)
• Cultural or religious considerations that may affect sheltering or diet

Build a support network of neighbors, friends, and family who can help in an emergency. Share your plans and ensure someone knows how to assist with any specialized equipment or responsibilities.

📝 Step 3: Complete a Written Emergency Plan

Use Ready.gov’s Family Emergency Plan Template (PDF) or create your own. Include:

• Emergency contact numbers
• Evacuation meeting points
• Medical information
• Pet care plans
• Utility shutoff instructions

Keep a printed copy in your emergency kit and share with all household members.

🧪 Step 4: Practice Your Plan

Regularly review and rehearse your plan with everyone in your household. Conduct drills so everyone knows:

• Where to go
• Who to contact
• What to bring