He’s Coming!! Santa and his elves will be making the trip around the west side of Marlboro on December 10th. If you’d like a gift dropped off, complete the form at https://form.jotform.com/223253962752156 and someone will be in contact. 

If you have any further questions email operationsanta@robertsvillefire.org

NWS has issued a Blizzard Warning for our area here is the latest weather update from our consultant.

What is a Blizzard?

According to the National Weather Service, a blizzard is defined as a winter storm with heavy snow or blowing snow that reduces visibility to ¼ mile or less for three hours or longer and winds of 35 mph or more. There are no temperature requirements, although bitter cold temperatures often accompany blizzards.

Blizzard warnings are typically issued after a winter storm watch, however, a winter storm warning can be upgraded to a blizzard warning if blizzard criteria are expected to be met during the storm.

Similar to a blizzard in many ways, ground blizzards are a distinct sub-category of blizzards that are caused by strong winds lifting loose snow or ice on the ground into the air. Consequently, precipitation is not required for a ground blizzard to occur, which is a key feature that helps to differentiate blizzards from ground blizzards.

As with any severe form of weather, specific weather conditions are needed for a blizzard to occur. These weather conditions include:

• Cold air to produce snow. For snow to maintain its form, colder temperatures must be present in the atmosphere and the ground. If the ground level is too warm, then the snow will melt before hitting the ground.
• Moisture is needed for clouds and precipitation. Before snow can form, moisture must be present. Since cold air is poor at holding moisture, most snow is not produced from cold air and instead comes from the water vapor emitted by lakes, rivers, and other sources.
• Moist air must rise over the cold air to create clouds and snow. As warm air flows up a mountainside, warm air eventually rises to form clouds and turn into snowfall. Additionally, snow formswhen warm and cold air comes together to form a front.

Blizzards form when these weather conditions are present simultaneously in an area. The mixture of moist and cold air provides the optimal conditions for snowfall.

A blizzard warning is issued by the National Weather Service when a blizzard is occurring or is imminent. Since blizzards greatly limit visibility and can cause bodily harm, issuing a blizzard warning in an area helps locals stay informed and protect themselves in the event of a blizzard.

Staying indoors during a blizzard is essential for preserving body heat and avoiding conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite. Additionally, driving during a blizzard is dangerous because of the reduced visibility and the loss of tire traction caused by snow buildup on roads. We’ve listed some blizzard safety tips below.

Blizzard Safety Tips

Like other forms of severe weather, the best way to stay safe during a blizzard and reduce the risk of injury is preparation. Here are some blizzard safety tips that will help you prepare:

• Seek shelter and stay indoors. Blizzards expose you to extreme cold, so staying indoors is your best defense. Stoking the fireplace or turning on a heater to stay warm is important for mitigating the colder temperatures and creating an ideal environment when waiting for a blizzard to pass. Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel and emergency heating equipment ahead of time, and fill your gas tank. If you must go out, dress appropriately, with multiple layers of warm clothing.
• Be prepared for power outages. You may lose power during a bizzard due to high winds. Make sure that you have plenty of batteries for flashlights. If possible, use a battery powered lantern rather than a candle to reduce the risk of a fire.
• Monitor the latest weather reports. Since blizzards last at least three hours, it is vital to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts. You can quickly check weather forecasts using a mobile device or weather radio, or the local news.
• Stock up on non-perishable food items. Whether you are stuck in a blizzard on the road or at home waiting for it to pass, you should have some non-perishable food items readily available. Blizzards can last for days and the effects for a week or more, so having a stockpile of non-perishables is crucial during prolonged events as grocery stores may not be easily accessible.
• Take breaks during shoveling. Shoveling snow after a blizzard can be a big tasks. Take frequent breaks and don’t overdo it. Heart attacks are a leading killer in the days after a blizzard hits.
• Do not drive. The roads will be difficult, if not impassble without four wheel drive. If you much venture out, pack an emergency kit and fully charge your cell phone before venturing out. Non clumping kitty litter might also be a good idea as it can give you traction in the event you get stuck.
• Watch your fireplace and coal burning stove. If the exhausts of either your fireplace or stove gets clogged by snow, you could be at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Aside from prioritizing your safety, your access to information during blizzards is also essential. One way you can prepare for a blizzard is by investing in a weather radio.

As one of the best weather radios currently available, the Midland WR300 is an excellent choice. The Midland WR300 provides standard SAME alerts and non-weather alerts with its large, easy-to-read display.

Winter Storm Watch has been put into effect in our area, here is a weather update from our consultant.

Light snow will begin in your area between 5-7pm Friday. Snow will increase overnight with periods of moderate/heavy snow possible for the morning and possibly early afternoon hours on Saturday. Snow will taper off in the late afternoon and should end 6-8pm Saturday. Snowfall amounts of 6-10″ are expected based on the current expected track. Look for north-northeast winds of 15-25 mph gusting 40-45 mph developing late Friday night/early Saturday. Winds will remain strong through the day on Saturday but they will switch to the northwest in the mid to late afternoon. Winds will diminish some Sunday morning but you may still see gusts of 35-40 mph during late morning and early afternoon before winds diminish further. Look for low temperatures in the upper teens Friday night and high temperatures on Saturday in the middle to upper 20s.

On Saturday December 18th Operation Santa will bring Santa and his Firefighter Elves around District 2, from 0900a to 530p. This is the route with tentative times. Be aware these times are subject to change. Our firefighters still need to keep the residents and the visitors of district 2 safe. We try to make sure the big guy gets to every inch of Fire District 2. We do unfortunately have to bypass certain streets due to space limitations with all the apparatus. Please bear with us.

If you are interested in having us, bring your child a gift, feel free to bring it to the station between 7 and 8 pm on Thursday 9th or 16th, make sure there is a tag on it with the child’s name, your address and a good contact number in case there is an issue.

Don’t forget to use the Santa Tracker Link to see live locations of Santa.

Happy Holidays from our house to yours.

OPERATION SANTA ROUTES AND TIMING INFORMATION (UPDATED)

(Times are an estimate)

1. STARTING OUT ON CREST DRIVE/HARRY COURT (0900)
2. EAST FRANCIS AVENUE, HAMILTON AVENUE, BURR AVENUE, WEST FRANCIS AVENUE (0905)
3. CHASE DRIVE (0915)
4. BLUFFS COURT (0920)
5. POINT DE JARDIN (0925)
6. ENCLOSURE DRIVE (0940)
7. MILLPONDS WAY (1000
8. BENNINGTON WAY (1015)
9. POINT OF WOODS BOULEVARD (1025)
10. TEXAS ROAD TO ROUTE 9 SOUTH TO SERPENTINE DRIVE (1035)
11.  SANDBERG DRIVE (COVERING MILLAY, GUEST, MARKHAM, ETC.) (1045)
12. HAWKINS ROAD TO JANWICH DRIVE (1115)
13. LINDSAY DRIVE (COVERING AIKEN, MORRIS, EMERSON, TURNER, & BRYANT) (1125)
14. WILLOW LANE (ROSEN, OKAN) (1140)
15. MARLBORO PLAZA (DRIVE THROUGH TO ROUTE 520)
16. BREAK @ 28-2 TBD (1145)
17. ANGELIQUE COURT (1300)
18. TENNENT ROAD TO CLAYTON LANE (GARY, CROYDON, SAMI COURT, ETC.) (1310)
19. TENNENT ROAD TO DARLENE COURT (1330)
20. TENNENT ROAD TO DUNCAN DRIVE (REGINA, BRUNSWICK, ETC.) (1335)
21. MCCUE ROAD TO PRINCE EDWARD (COVERING PRINCE WILLIAM TO HALIFAX) (1400)
22. CHURCH ROAD TO TIMBER HILL/YELLOWKNIFE (1435)
23. CHURCH ROAD TO GEORGIAN BAY DRIVE (LORENE, DIANE, SUSSEX, ETC.) (1445)
24. OTTAWA ROAD NORTH, CARLTON (1505)
25. MICKI DRIVE (1520)
26. VISTA DRIVE (1525)
27. CALGARY COURT (1530)
28. LEONARD DRIVE (1535)
29. EVERGREEN/FOXCROFT DRIVE (1540)
30. BENNET COURT (1550)
31. WASHINGTON AVENUE (RUBY, BARCLAY, ADAMS STREET, ETC.) (1600)
32. CRINE TO DEERFIELD (1620)
33. SCOTT DRIVE (WESTBROOK, JACKIE, ETC.) (1630)
34. VALESI (1645)
35. DEEP RUN (1650)
36. EVAN DRIVE (1655)

The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially at Thanksgiving. Kids love to be involved in holiday preparations. Safety in the kitchen is important, especially on Thanksgiving
Day when there is a lot of activity and people at home.

Did you know?

Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. 

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the
  stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check
  on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be
  hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids.
  The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee
  could cause serious burns.
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys,
  pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee
  maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the
  counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of
  children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them
  by pushing the test button.

Have activities that keep kids out of the kitchen during this busy time. Games, puzzles or books can keep them busy. Kids can get involved in Thanksgiving preparations with
recipes that can be done outside the kitchen.

As we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, ABC News compiled these reminders about what happened that day, as well as in the years since.

FAST FACTS

19 hijackers took over four planes.
Three sites hit: The South and North towers of the World Trade Center, The Pentagon, a field in Shanksville, PA

102 minutes: Total time of the major events at the World Trade Center– the time from the first crash into The North Tower, to the second crash into the South Tower, to the collapse of the South Tower, to the collapse of the North Tower.

As of 2021, the remains of 1,106 individuals killed that day in New York City have still yet to be identified, according to the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner.

FLIGHT NUMBERS AND TARGETS
American Airlines Flight 11: Crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center
AA 11 was scheduled as a nonstop flight from Boston to Los Angeles before it was hijacked and crashed into the World Trade Center at 8:46am, according to the 9/11 Commission Report. The second plane hit shortly after.

United Airlines Flight 175: Crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center
UA 175 had been scheduled as a nonstop flight from Boston to Los Angeles before it was hijacked and crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center at 9:03am, according to the 9/11 Commision Report. The first plane had hit the towers just under 20 minutes earlier.

American Airlines Flight 77: Crashed into Pentagon
AA 77 had been scheduled as a nonstop flight from Washington D.C. to Los Angeles. AA77 was hijacked just before 9am, according to the 9/11 commission report, and crashed into the Pentagon at 9:37am.

United Airlines Flight 93: Crashed in field in Shanksville, PA
UA 93 had been scheduled as a nonstop flight from Newark to San Francisco. The plane was “likely” hijacked at 9:28am, according to the 9/11 Commission Report, and passengers began to revolt at 9:57 am before it ultimately crashed at 10:03am.

9/11 MEMORIAL OFFICIAL TIMELINE

5:45 a.m. – Hijackers pass through security in Portland, Maine, and board a flight to Boston, where they connect to American Airlines Flight 11.

6:00 a.m. – Polling stations open, as September 11 was a primary election day in New York City.

7:59 a.m. – Flight 11 takes off from Boston for Los Angeles. Eleven crew members, 76 passengers, and five hijackers are on board.

8:15 a.m. – Flight 175 takes off from Boston for Los Angeles. Nine crew members, 51 passengers, and five hijackers are on board.

8:19 a.m. – Flight 11 crew members alert ground personnel that a hijacking is underway. Shortly before, one hijacker stabbed a passenger, Daniel Lewin, who was seated in front of him. Officials speculate that Lewin may have tried to stop the hijackers and was likely the first victim of the attacks.

8:20 a.m. – American Airlines Flight 77, en route to Los Angeles, takes off from Washington, D.C. Six crew members, 53 passengers, and five hijackers are on board.

8:24 a.m. – Attempting to communicate with passengers, a hijacker contacts air traffic control, unwittingly alerting controllers to the attacks.

8:37 a.m. – Boston air traffic control alerts the military. Air National Guard jets in Massachusetts are mobilized to follow Flight 11.

8:42 a.m. San Francisco-bound United Airlines Flight 93 takes off at Newark following a delay. Seven crew members, 33 passengers, and four hijackers are on board.

8:46 a.m. – Flight 11 crashes into floors 93 through 99 of the North Tower.

8:50 a.m. – President George W. Bush is alerted. His advisors assume this is a tragic accident.

8:55 a.m. – The South Tower is declared secure.

8:59 a.m. – Port Authority police order the evacuation of both towers. A minute later, the order is expanded to the entire World Trade Center complex.

9:00 a.m. – A flight attendant aboard Flight 175 alerts air traffic control that a hijacking is underway.

9:03 a.m. – Flight 175 crashes into floors 77 through 85 of the South Tower.

9:05 a.m. – President Bush learns that a second plane has crashed into the World Trade Center. Twenty-five minutes later, he addresses Americans, saying that “terrorism against our nation will not stand.”

9:05 a.m. – Flight 77 passenger Barbara Olson calls her husband, U.S. Solicitor General Theodore Olson, who alerts other federal officials of the hijacking.

9:36 a.m. – Secret Service agents evacuate Vice President Dick Cheney to the Presidential Emergency Operations Center beneath the White House.

9:37 a.m. – American Airlines Flight 77 crashes into the Pentagon. The crash and fire kill 59 on the plane and 125 on the ground.

9:42 a.m. – The FAA grounds all flights.

9:45 a.m. – The White House and U.S. Capitol are evacuated.

9:59 a.m. – The South Tower collapses in 10 seconds after burning for 56 minutes. More than 800 people in and around the building are killed.

10:03 a.m. – United Airlines Flight 93 crashes near Shanksville, Pennsylvania after passengers and crew storm the cockpit. Forty people on board, excluding the hijackers, perish.

10:15 a.m. – The Pentagon’s outer ring collapses.

10:28 a.m. – The North Tower collapses after burning for 102 minutes. More than 1,600 in and around the building are killed.

11:02 a.m. – New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani orders the evacuation of Lower Manhattan.

12:16 p.m. – The last flight still in the air above the continental United States lands.

12:30 p.m. – A group of 14 survivors emerge from a North Tower stairwell.

3:00 p.m. – A survivor, Pasquale Buzzelli, is rescued from the rubble of the North Tower.

5:20 p.m. – After burning for hours, 7 World Trade Center collapses. There are no casualties.

8:30 p.m. – President Bush addresses the nation from the White House, assuring Americans that a search is underway for “those who are behind these evil acts.”

10:30 p.m. – Rescuers locate and extract two PAPD officers injured but alive in debris of the World Trade Center.

DEATHS

THE DAY OF THE ATTACK: 2,977 total deaths occurred on the day of Sept. 11, 2001, according to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. They occurred in three locations: New York City, Washington D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Breakdown of each:

NEW YORK CITY:

2,753 KILLED AT THE SITE OF THE WORLD TRADE CENTER

According to the NYC Medical Examiner’s office, 2,753 individuals were killed at the WTC on September 11th. As of 2021, the remains of 1,647 (60%) of those individuals have been identified, according to the office. The remains of 1,106 individuals (40%) remain unidentified.

Those killed at the WTC that day included, but are not limited to:

441 FIRST RESPONDERS.

Among the nearly 3,000 killed that day are 441 first responders who rushed to the site to save others, according to the 9/11 Memorial. They include, but are not limited to:

· 23 New York Police Department Officers, according to the NYPD

· 343 New York City Firefighters, according to the NYFD

· 37 Police Officers from the Port Authority of New Jersey, according to PANJ

92 PASSENGERS AND CREW MEMBERS ON AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT 11

All 11 crew members and 81 passengers, including 5 hijackers, on American Airlines Flight 11 were killed when it crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center.

65 PASSENGERS AND CREW MEMBERS ON UNITED AIRLINES FLIGHT 175

All 9 crew members and 56 passengers, including five hijackers, were killed on United Airlines Flight 175 when it crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center, according to the commission report.

WASHINGTON D.C.:

184 KILLED AT PENTAGON

184 individuals were killed at the Pentagon, according to the memorial, including the 64 individuals on the plane that crashed into the building.

PENNSYLVANIA:

40 KILLED IN SHANKSVILLE CRASH

All 40 passengers and crew members, as well as four hijackers, were killed when United Airlines Flight 93 crashed into the field in Shanksville, PA.

SINCE THE DAY OF THE ATTACKS, thousands of individuals– including first responders and survivors- have died from illness contracted from the terror sites. They include, but are not limited to:

2,833 FIRST RESPONDERS AND SURVIVORS WHO HAVE DIED DUE TO CANCER OR AERODIGESTIVES, ACCORDING TO THE CDC

At least 2,833 first responders and survivors have passed from illnesses related to the site, according to the CDC’s World Trade Center Health Program– the majority of them first responders. According to the program, 1,167 first responders have died from Aerodigestives1 and 1,105 from cancer. An additional 302 survivors have died from aerodigestives, according to the program, and 305 from cancer.

241 NEW YORK POLICE DEPARTMENT OFFICERS KILLED FROM ILLNESSES AS OF 2019

ABC News has previously reported that, as of 2019, 241 members of the NYPD died of 9/11-related illnesses — compared to the 23 killed in the attack on the World Trade Center. The most common killer has been cancer, but new research suggests that cardiovascular disease is markedly higher in responders who were first on the scene as well as those who spent protracted periods of time on the pile.

MORE THAN 250 NEW YORK CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT FIREMAN KILLED FROM ILLNESS AS OF 2021

More than 250 firefights have died since in the 20 years since 9/11, according to the latest snapshot of FDNY health released this week. Nearly 16,000 FDNY members were exposed to dust, particulates, noxious gases, chemicals and fibers while working for more than 10 months in the rescue and recovery effort, the report said.

IN THE WARS IN IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN

AT LEAST 6,783 U.S. MILITARY CASUALTIES HAVE OCCURRED IN IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN, ACCORDING TO THE DOD:

As of August 23rd, 4,431 U.S Military and Department of Defense personnel have been killed in Iraq since 2003, according to the Department of Defense. More than 30,000 have been injured.

As of August 23rd, 2,353 U.S. military service members have been killed in Afghanistan since October 2001, according to DOD. More than 20,000 were wounded.

More than 30,000 ACTIVE SERVICE MEMBERS AND U.S. VETERANS OF THE 9/11 WARS HAVE DIED BY SUICIDE
A study out of Brown University’s Watson Institute found that 30,117 active-duty service members have died by suicide. These high suicide rates– which outpace average Americans– are caused by multiple factors, the study found, some inherent to fighting in a war and others unique to America’s “war on terror” framework.

From Marlboro Police Department!

Earlier this morning at 430am Marlboro Township Police officers responded to a residence for a report of a missing 14 year old juvenile named Cynthia who ran away from the residence. Police were alerted the Juvenile left the residence after stripping off all her clothing. The Missing juvenile is described as a White female, five foot one ( 5’1), 120 lbs., brown hair. The missing juvenile was last seen in the area of Hobart Street by State Highway 79. Please contact the Marlboro Township Police Department at 732-536-0100 if you see someone fitting this description. Be Aware there will be a large police presence in the area of Route 79 and School Road. #communityfirst #marlboropolice

Highs today will be in the lower 90s with heat indices up to 106 possible. Heat indices will fall into the mid 80s by midnight. Humidity values are expected to range 60-80% for most of the day. The NWS has a Heat Advisory and an Excessive Heat Warning in effect until 7pm tomorrow. Similar conditions are expected for tomorrow

An Excessive Heat Warning is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 105 degrees or greater. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible, and drink plenty of water. Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoors. Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors.

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1

Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. Heat can be very taxing on the body; check out the heat related illnesses that can occur with even a short period of exposure. Everyone can be vulnerable to heat, but some more so than others. According to The Impacts Of Climate Change On Human Health In The United States: A Scientific Assessment the following groups are particularly vulnerable to heat; check in with friends and relatives who fall in one of these populations, especially if they don’t have air conditioning.

Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and death, as their bodies are less able to adapt to heat than are adults.

Older adults, particularly those with pre existing diseases, take certain medications, are living alone or with limited mobility who are exposed to extreme heat can experience multiple adverse effects.

People with chronic medical conditions are more likely to have a serious health problem during a heat wave than healthy people.

Pregnant women are also at higher risk. Extreme heat events have been associated with adverse birth outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and infant mortality, as well as congenital cataracts.

It is NEVER safe to leave a child, disabled person or pet locked in a car, even in the winter. If you have a toddler in your household, lock your cars, even in your own driveway.  Kids play in cars or wander outside and get into a car and can die in 10 minutes! A reported 25 children died in hot cars in 2020. To see the latest information for 2021, go to this link. Deaths routinely are reported as early as April and tragedies continue into December in southern states.

FEMA and FCC Plan Nationwide Emergency Alert Test for Aug. 11 Test Messages Will be Sent to TVs and Radios Along with Select Cell Phones That Have Opted-in to Receive Test Message

https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20210611/fema-and-fcc-plan-nationwide-emergency-alert-test-aug-11-test-messages-will

Release Date:

June 11, 2021

Come join us along with other emergency responders,  Tuesday August 3rd from 6p to 8pm at the Marlboro Municipal Complex to promote strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live and work.

We send our thoughts and prayers to the Hillsborough Township Fire Department over the loss of Assistant Chief William Shaffer, along with William’s Family.

Companies 1, 2 and career members all turned out to 2124 Camplain Road at 1318 hours today for a working vehicle fire. As companies worked on the fire, Chief Shaffer was found unresponsive. Members immediately treated him and he was transported to RWJ Somerset Hospital where he passed away.

https://patch.com/new-jersey/hillsborough/hillsborough-firefighter-dies-line-duty

BBQ Safety

BEFORE BARBECUING

• Check your grill thoroughly for leaks, cracking or brittleness before using it.
• Check the tubes leading to the burner regularly for blockages. Check with your specific grill manufacturer’s instructions.
• Make sure the grill is at least 10 feet away from your house, garage or trees.
• Store and use your grill on a large flat surface that cannot burn (i.e.- concrete or asphalt).
• Don’t use grills in a garage, porch, deck or on top of anything that can catch on fire.  Never use a propane barbecue grill on a balcony, terrace or roof. It is both dangerous and illegal.
• Keep children away from fires and grills. It is a good idea to establish a safety zone around the grill and instruct children to remain outside the zone. A chalk line works great for this purpose.
• Have a fire extinguisher, a garden hose attached to a water supply, or at least 16-quarts of water close by in case of a fire.
• Before getting a propane cylinder filled, check for any damages to it.
• Never transport or store propane cylinders in the trunk of your automobile.

DURING BARBECUING

• Don’t wear loose clothing that might catch fire.
• Use long handled barbecue tools and/or flame resistant mitts.
• Never use any flammable liquid other than a barbecue starter fluid to start or freshen a fire.
• Never pour or squirt starter fluid onto an open flame. The flame can easily flashback along the fluid’s path to the container in your hands.
• Keep alcoholic beverages away from the grill, they are flammable!
• Never leave the grill unattended.

BBQ SAFELY

• When lighting your propane barbecue, make sure all the connections are secure and open the lid and strike your match or lighter BEFORE turning on the gas.
• ALWAYS shut off the propane fuel at the grill and at the bottle after you have finished barbecuing. Otherwise, this will lead to fire hazards, such as leaks and faulty regulators.
• Store your BBQ and propane cylinder outdoors.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the safe use, cleaning and maintenance of your BBQ.
• Test your cylinder for leaks on a regular basis. When testing for leaks, never use matches or an open flame. Use soapy water or a leak detector.
• Store your cylinder away from heat and insert a safety plug on the valve.

AFTER BARBECUING

• Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and storing instructions that accompany the grill.
• Keep your grill clean and free of grease buildup that may lead to a fire.
• Never store liquid or pressurized fuels inside your home and/or near any possible sources of flame.

 IN CASE OF A BARBECUE FIRE

• For PROPANE Grills – turn off the burners. For CHARCOAL Grills – close the grill lid. Disconnect the power to ELECTRIC Grills.
• For PROPANE Grills – if you can safely reach the tank valve, shut it off.
• If the fire involves the tank, leave it alone, evacuate the area and call the fire department.
• If there is any type of fire that either threatens your personal safety or endangers property, ALWAYS DIAL 911.
• NEVER attempt to extinguish a grease fire with water. It will only cause the flames to flare up. Use an approved portable fire extinguisher.

REMEMBER

• Propane barbecue grills and no more than two (2) 20-pound propane tanks are allowed on the grounds of a one or two-family home, but be sure to follow the fire safety precautions above.
• Only use a charcoal barbecue on a balcony or terrace if there is a ten-foot clearance from the building and there is an immediate source of water (garden hose or four (4) gallon pail of water).

Robertsville Volunteer Fire Company remembers and honors those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States to remember all those who have died in military service to the nation. But why do we set this day aside? It is for far more than cookouts and an excuse for a day off from work to kick off the summer.

The holiday originated in the South immediately after the end of the American Civil War. Southern women in Georgia and Mississippi, grieving for the loss of a huge portion of the male population, organized “Decoration Days” on which flowers were placed on the graves of dead soldiers. The custom quickly became popular and widely publicized. In 1868, the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans, established a day for the nation to decorate the graves of the Union war dead with flowers as well.

It quickly became customary for the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers to be decorated and their service honored, no matter where they fell or for which side they fought. Northern women would include the graves of Confederate soldiers in the commemoration and Southern women would also decorate the graves of Union Soldiers. Even though the North and South initially celebrated this event on different dates, these acts of reverence for war dead became a symbol of what was slowly reuniting the broken nation: citizens of the North and South were united in their sorrow and in remembering those who died. Over 600,000 soldiers died in that war.

By the early part of the 20th century, the competing holidays merged and became a day to honor not just those who died in the Civil War, but for all military dead, with May 30 as the accepted date. It was chosen because it was not the anniversary date of any particular battle and because flowers would be in bloom all across the nation. On June 28, 1968 Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved four holidays, including Memorial Day, from their traditional dates to a specified Monday to create a convenient three-day weekend. The change moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May.

Memorial Day should not be confused with Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women of the armed forces who have died, while Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans, living and dead.

There are numerous Memorial Day traditions observed around the country and overseas where U.S. troops are stationed. One of my most meaningful memories is participating, while assigned to the Pentagon, in a tradition called “Flags In.” Service members from all over the Military District of Washington gather at Arlington National Cemetery. Taking bundles of flags, we walk the cemetery and make sure every grave is decorated with the American Flag. Because of my duty in Casualty Affairs, Flags In is a personal reminder of the 1,116 fallen members of the military for whom I had officiated in ceremonies at Dover Air Force Base and of the many family members, whom I met personally.

Another tradition involves the raising of the flag on Memorial Day: the American flag is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. The half-staff position remembers the more than one million men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. At noon, the flag is raised by the living, who resolve not to let their sacrifice be in vain, but to rise up in their stead and continue the fight for liberty and justice.

Memorial Day is also filled with family traditions, as well as parades and other commemorations in local communities. It is the unofficial beginning of the summer vacation season, which runs through Labor Day, a reminder of the many freedoms, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in our nation’s communities, only possible because of the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform.

This Memorial Day weekend, I remind you that military service is still inherently dangerous, no matter what one’s occupational specialty for the armed forces. Training, deployments, and the ongoing fight against radical Islamist terror are all replete with potential risks. Since 2001, 2,399 U.S. service members have died in Afghanistan, 4,486 in Iraq, and 159 in other operations. Thirteen of these casualties happened this year. We also continue to bury hundreds of veterans from World War II, that greatest generation, as well as thousands more who have served our nation honorably. Take time this weekend to remember their sacrifice and to pray for their families and loved ones

NJ Bans Open Fires In 5 Counties As Acres Of Forest Keep Burning
The ban on open burning — including in home fire pits

The ban on open burning takes effect at 8 a.m. Wednesday, officials said, and was put in place as fire crews continue to battle two large forest fires in the southern portion of the state.

The prohibition will be in effect for Ocean, Burlington, Monmouth and parts of Middlesex and Mercer counties, Ocean County.

A lack of rainfall — New Jersey is as much as 20 percent below its average for precipitation so far in 2021 — and warm, dry forecasts for the coming days have increased the fire threat across the state.

New Jersey’s statewide fire threat was “high” as of Tuesday evening, according to the forest fire service’s dashboard. But the overlapping fires in the Bass River and Brendan T. Byrne state forests have prompted the ban on open flames. Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy, who issued an alert to county residents, said the ban on open fires is in effect across New Jersey.

Let’s thank our emergency medical service personnel. Throughout this pandemic, they persevered and risked their lives to ensure prompt, professional care for Marlboro residents. Thank you for all you do. @MFARS2823 @marlborofirstaid

The Robertsville Volunteer Fire Co, on behalf of all our members, would like to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude this Teacher Appreciation Week. This year has been the most challenging times in most of our lives, certainly in the lives of our children, yet our sense community is as strong as ever, thanks to you all. You’ve been an amazing and welcome virtual presence in our homes. You rose to a challenge none of us could have anticipated and because of your steady example our children are rising to the challenge as well. This year will be a year none of our kiddos forget — but rather than look back in sadness or fear, they will recall the bond they shared with all of you. They will recall examples of warmth, strength, adaptability, grace and resilience. And for that, we are forever grateful.

#Marlboro #MarlboroTownship #MTPS

WHAT IS WILDFIRE COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS DAY?
Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is a national campaign that encourages people and organizations everywhere to come together on a single day to take action to raise awareness and reduce wildfire risks. It is held in the United States and Canada on the first Saturday in May. Given that in-person gatherings are limited or on-hold in many places, this year’s Prep Day is focused on what residents can do on and around their home to help protect against the threat of wildfires.
The idea for the day came from a survey asking middle school students in Texas and Colorado about how they wanted to learn about wildfire. They wanted to be a part of some-thing that was making a difference by improving wildfire safety where they lived. When the program was piloted in 2013 in Colorado, both students and adults were eager to be a part of a day to raise awareness about wildfire safety involving hands-on risk reduction activities. Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is now celebrated across the nation.
WHO SUPPORTS THIS EFFORT?
The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping save lives and reduce loss from fire and electrical hazards, manages Prep Day. State Farm provides generous financial support with 150 project awards. Many national organizations help promote Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, including FEMA, U.S. Fire Administration, NOAA, the Fire Adapted Communities Learning Network, Fire Safe Councils, the National Association of State Foresters, and the American Red Cross.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE THAT MATTERS!
You can help promote wildfire protection by participating in risk reduction projects on your property on or before the 1st of May. Studies show that measures taken at the home and in the area within 100 feet of it, known as the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ), have a significant impact on minimizing damage and loss. Something as simple as clearing the immediate 5-foot zone around the home can assist in making a huge difference in avoiding a catastrophe.

Defending the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ)

Research shows there are proven methods for preparing properties for withstanding the devastating impacts of a wildfire. This Prep Day, you have the power to protect the part of the community that means the most to you and your family by eliminating vulnerabilities in the HIZ, particularly the immediate 5-foot zone around your residence. Whether it’s replacing wood chips with gravel or reimagining your entire landscape design, what you do on Saturday, May 1, really matters. Be ready to make a difference in helping to avoid loss and tragedy with information and resources from NFPA®.

CHECK!

• Can you see your home’s address number from the street? How about your neighbors’? If not, trim overgrown vegetation covering or blocking the numbers on your homes in case firefighters need to find you.
• Locate two alternate routes out of your neighborhood (besides the one normally used) and plan and practice a family evacuation drill using those alternate routes.
• Measure how close wood piles are located to the home. If any are closer than 30 feet, move them farther away from structures. Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire screening no larger than 1/8-inch mesh to help keep embers out during a wildfire.

CLEAR!

• Rake and remove pine needles and dry leaves to a minimum of 3 to 5 feet from a home’s foundation. Over time, continue up to a 30-foot distance around the home. Dispose of collected debris in appropriate trash receptacles.
• Sweep porches and decks, clearing them of leaves and pine needles. Rake under decks, porches, sheds, and play structures.
• On mature trees, use hand pruners and loppers to remove low-hanging tree branches up to a height of 4 feet from the ground (specific height depends on the type and size of tree). Collect downed tree limbs and broken branches and take them to a disposal site.
• Remove items stored under decks and porches and relocate them to a storage area. Gasoline cans and portable propane tanks should never be stored indoors or near the home.

COMMUNICATE!

• Create a family communication plan and build or update a 72- hour evacuation kit for you, your family, and your pets.

#WildfirePrepDay

Wind Advisory in effect..Strong northwest winds will continue to increase through the day today sustained at 20-30 mph with gusts of 40-50 mph likely after 12-2pm. A slight increase in winds is possible this evening by around 7-9pm, sustained at 25-32 mph with gusts to 45-55 mph with isolated peak gusts of 60 mph. Winds decrease after 1-3am late tonight/early Sat. morning through sunrise, sustained around 15-25 mph with gusts of 35-40 mph. Winds become 12-18 mph with gusts of 25-30 mph by 10am-12pm on Saturday, decreasing through the afternoon

The International Labour Organization (ILO) started observing the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28, 2003. The ILO is devoted to advancing opportunities for people to obtain decent and productive work in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity. It aims to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, boost social protection, and strengthen dialogue in work-related issues.

https://robertsvillefire.org/2313-2/

Sad day for our brothers and sisters in blue over the river. NYPD has lost one of it’s own in the line of duty.
From all our members and families we send our condolences.

An NYPD officer, a 43-year-old husband, and father of two was killed early Tuesday when he was struck by a passing vehicle while diverting traffic from a previous fatal crash on the Long Island Expressway in Queens, and an alleged drunk driver is in custody.

The officer is identified as Anastasios Tsakos, a 14-year veteran of the force assigned to Highway 3.

Officer Tsakos was struck by a 2013 Volkswagen in the eastbound lanes of the LIE near Francis Lewis Boulevard just before 2 a.m. Police said the driver, a 32-year-old woman from Hempstead who was intoxicated and had a suspended license, swerved to avoid other cars and hit Tsakos as he stood next to his marked vehicle.

She initially drove from the scene but was arrested a short time later.

The striking driver is now facing several charges, including two counts of vehicular manslaughter, reckless endangerment, fleeing officer in a motor vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, aggravated unlicensed operator, operating motor vehicle .08 of 1% alcohol, DWI, reckless driving, driving without a license, DWAI alcohol, collide with emergency vehicle and right of way violation: emergency motor vehicle.

Earth Day is a name used for two similar global observances. While some people celebrate Earth Day around the time of the March Equinox, others observe the occasion on April 22 each year. The April 22 Earth Day, founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson, was first organized in 1970 to promote ecology and respect for life on the planet as well as to encourage awareness of the growing problems of air, water, and soil pollution. Some people prefer to observe Earth Day around the time of the March equinox. In 1978, American anthropologist Margaret Mead added her support for the equinox Earth Day, founded by John McConnell. She stated that the selection of the March Equinox for Earth Day made planetary observance of a shared event possible.

DELAYED! State tuned for updated date..

Friday 4/16 from 8pm to 6am Saturday, Due to Construction Union ramp from Union Hill Road to Route 9 South and Ramp from Route 9 South to Union Hill Road East will be closed for repaving.

Detours will be in place. Avoid area and use alternate routes.

Google Maps

From the Members of the Robertsville Volunteer Fire Co. #1,

To all those of the Muslim Faith..

May this Ramadan be as bright as ever.

Wishing you all the blessings of the holy month.

As you fast and offer prayers to Allah, may you find your peace and happiness. Have a peaceful and happy Ramadan

May the Spirit of Ramadan stay in our heart and illuminate our soul from within. Happy Ramadan!

May the crescent-shaped moon brighten your path toward enlightenment and may Allah bless you with peace and grace. Wishing you a Happy Ramadan!

Welcome the month of Ramadan with a heart filled with peace, harmony and joy. May the divine blessings of Allah protect and guide you

May this Ramadan bring joy, health and wealth to you

On the month of Ramadan, I am wishing you four weeks of blessings, 30 days of clemency, and 720 hours of enlightenment. Happy Ramadan!

As the month of Ramadan starts, talk respectfully, treat others kindly, walk modestly and pray sincerely. May Allah bless you and your family

May Allah always guide you all throughout your journey in life. I wish this Ramadan will infuse you with courage that will help you be triumphant over the adversities of life. Happy Ramadan!

To all those with the calm voice in the dark watching our backs. We thank you for your dedication.

The United Nations (UN) celebrates the International Day of Human Space Flight on April 12 each year. April 12, 1961, was the date of the first human space flight, carried out by Yuri Gagarin. This historic event opened the way for space exploration. In 2011 the UN declared April 12 as the “International Day of Human Space Flight” to remember the first human space flight and to promote the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes and to the benefit of humankind.

Rest in Peace United States Capitol Police Officer William “Billy” Evans, E.O.W. 4/2/2021. Police Officer Evans was killed in the line of duty by an individual who rammed a car into a secure entrance to the United States Capitol. Police Officer Evans served with the U.S. Capitol Police since March 7, 2003. Billy, rest in the Lord’s eternal embrace. Always Honored, Never Forgotten. #uscapitolpolice #uscapitol #thesacrificecontinues