Hurricane Irene: One Year Ago Today

Today marks , where the unprecedented natural disaster impacted thousands of New Jersey residents, confining them to their homes while leaving them without electricity, broken power lines, heavy floods, and dangerously strong winds.

However, despite the fury of Hurricane Irene’s arrival, Bloomfield’s diligent officials worked endlessly throughout the night to ensure the safety of the community.

It was the busiest day in Bloomfield Fire Department’s history, according to fire officials. They responded to 550 calls for assistance related to the hurricane over a span of 2-3 days. “Their performance was outstanding and I am extremely proud of them,” said Chief Inspector Samuel Infante, “Their tireless work showed how well trained they are. Although the fire department was understaffed at the time, and still is, I don’t think we could ask for a better response.”

The officials said an event such as Hurricane Irene rare, the Bloomfield Fire Department purchased water rescue equipment. “We realized we didn’t have the equipment at the time for, what we call, swift water rescues,” said Fire Chief Joseph McCarthy, “We bought throw bags, which would minimize the danger to our personnel.”

Extra pumps for removing water from basements were also purchased and the Office of Emergency Management now has regular meetings to discuss and plan for such emergencies. “The experience of dealing with a disaster makes everyone better prepared to handle it in the future,” said Infante.

Anthony Nesto, director of Public Works and his staff were not caught off guard by Hurricane Irene because of the advanced planning and preparation that was done before the hurricane’s arrival. “Constant observing of updated weather reports, along with experience from my seasoned staff, allowed us not to be surprised,” he said.

Since Hurricane Irene, the township of Bloomfield is much better prepared and equipped. “We have newer and better vehicles to help the DPW maintain the town.  Our police cars are newer and we have added SUV's for better movement by our superior officers in times of trouble.  Our OEM has improved their communications system and we have new people to help during those problematic times,” said Mayor Raymond McCarthy.

Town officials aren't the only ones who need to be prepared for emergencies, residents should also be ready. “In an event that is predictable, you need to plan ahead and plan to be self-sufficient,” said Fire Chief McCarthy, “A hurricane, a major blizzard - they don’t catch you by surprise. There’s plenty of time to prepare.”

Chief Inspector Samuel Infante said residents should learn how to board up and tape their windows, have a sump pump installed that runs with or without electricity, purchase a portable generator to provide electricity for basic living needs such as lights, heat, microwaves, and have a licensed electrician wire their portable generator with an interlock directly into your main electrical panel.

“Every storm and event brings new problems that we may not have seen before.  But with the experience these men and women have and their ability to problem solve quickly we will continue to bring the people of Bloomfield the protection and safety they need in times like these,” said Mayor McCarthy.