Winter Storm Prep

Stay Informed

For weather alert updates, text your zip code to 888-777, download the Everbridge Nixle mobile app, or visit middletownnj.org/NIXLE to register. You can also get local weather updates by visiting US National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly. We will also post additional updates via our social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, X, and Nextdoor).

Safety Tips

  • Stock up on essential supplies, such as medications, non-perishable food, and water. Check on your snow removal tools to make sure they are in good condition.
  • Make an emergency communication plan with your family and neighbors.
  • Winterize your home by inspecting your chimney, insulating your attic and exposed pipes, cleaning your gutters, caulking and weathering strip doors and windows, and testing your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Please clear snow from all vents around the house. This includes flue pipes and dryer vents. When the vents are blocked, dangerous carbon monoxide can build up inside the home. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Middletown Fire Official Buddy Skelly at 732-615-2272. 
  • If there’s a fire hydrant near your home, please keep it accessible by clearing 3 feet of space around it — it’s required by law for all homeowners with a hydrant on their property.
As heavy winds and snow could knock out power, please adhere to the following rules when using a generator: 
  • Give 10 feet of clearance from any structure.
  • Use UL approved extension cords.
  • Ensure carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors are functioning in all businesses/homes while using a generator.
  • Never run a generator in an enclosed space or indoors. This includes basements and garages, which can capture deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Always place the generator at least 20 feet from the house with the engine exhaust directed away from windows and doors. Keeping the garage door open does not provide enough ventilation to keep the fumes outside. 
  • Purchase a (CO) detector with a plug and battery backup. That way, if you shut off the generator, the battery backup will automatically keep the device going.
Please call Middletown Fire Official Buddy Skelly at 732-615-2272 if you have any questions about how to safely use a generator. If you lose power and decide to burn candles as a source of light, please place the candles on hard, non-flammable surfaces to avoid a potential fire.

Tips on How to Safely Shovel Snow

  • Be conscious of the strain shoveling can have on your heart. Discuss safety measures with your doctor if you have a history of a heart condition.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Take breaks and drink plenty of water.
  • Shovel while snow is fresh and watch for ice.
  • Take it slow and don’t apply too much pressure on your back.
  • Be cautious around machinery and keep a phone nearby in case of an emergency.

Please keep in mind that snowmelt cannot easily infiltrate frozen ground and can cause flooding. When shoveling, pile snow downhill from your home where rainwater naturally flows. Keep gutters unobstructed and directed away from your foundation. 

Power Outages

To report downed wires or power outages call 1-888-LIGHTSS or click the “Report Outage” link at firstenergycorp.com/outages. Please remember, never go near a downed power line, even if you think it is no longer carrying electricity.

Warming Centers

In the event that it is needed, the Middletown Township Office of Emergency Management will open a warming station(s). Visit middletownnj.org/warmingcenters for updates and to see a list of warming centers throughout Monmouth County.

Snow Removal

Once snow begins to accumulate to about 3 inches, snow removal procedures are initiated. The Township’s priority is to keep primary roads open so there is a clear path for emergency vehicles. The Township uses more than 100 pieces of equipment to treat and clear roads. 

To view a list of primary, secondary, and collector streets, visit middletownnj.org/snow. If your street is not listed, it is considered a neighborhood street that will be addressed as soon as the others are completed. We ask that those on roads that are not heavily used to be patient, as all roads will be salted/plowed in time. If your street has still not been plowed after some time, you can submit a plow request at middletownnj.org/plowrequest.

Visit middletownnj.org/stormguide for more information about DPW's storm prep and snow removal procedures.

Key Temperature Thresholds for Salt Effectiveness:

  • 30°F to 25°F: Highly effective, works quickly.
  • 25°F to 20°F: Still functional, but requires more product.
  • 20°F to 15°F: Effectiveness drops significantly, becomes sluggish.
  • Below 15°F: Becomes largely ineffective or "useless" on roads. 

Video Resources

Additional Resources