Assemblymen Simonsen & McClellan Urge Residents to Stay Safe During Hurricanes and Rip Currents

Cape May Court House, NJ Monday, August 18th – With the height of hurricane season closing in and dangerous rip currents posing risks along New Jersey’s coastline, Assemblymen Erik Simonsen and Antwan McClellan are urging residents and visitors to take important precautions to protect themselves and their families.

“Hurricanes and severe storms can develop quickly, leaving little time to prepare,” said Assemblyman Erik Simonsen. “We want our communities to know the steps they can take now to stay safe before, during, and after a storm.”

Assemblyman Antwan McClellan emphasized the importance of water safety: “Rip currents are one of the most dangerous threats at the shore, especially following major storms. Knowing how to identify them and respond if caught can save lives.”

Hurricane Safety Tips

• Prepare in advance: Stock up on water, food, batteries, medications, and secure important documents.

• Secure your home: Board up windows, bring in outdoor furniture, and know your local evacuation routes.

• During the storm: Stay indoors, avoid floodwaters, and monitor official updates through radios or emergency alerts.

• After the storm: Be cautious of downed power lines, contaminated floodwaters, and use generators only outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Rip Current Safety Tips

• When in doubt, stay out: The safest choice is to avoid entering the water if conditions are rough, lifeguards advise against swimming, or beaches are closed.

• Swim near lifeguards: The vast majority of rip current rescues occur where no lifeguards are present.

• Know the signs: Look for channels of water moving away from shore, discolored or choppy patches, or breaks in wave patterns.

• If caught in a rip current: Don’t fight the current. Swim parallel to the shoreline until you’re free, then return to shore. If you can’t escape, float and signal for help.

Important Documents to Protect During a Storm

• Personal identification: Driver’s licenses, passports, Social Security cards, birth and marriage certificates.
  Financial records: Bank account details, checkbooks, insurance policies, tax documents, and investment information.

• Medical information: Health insurance cards, vaccination records, prescriptions, and contact information for doctors.

• Home & property records: Deeds, mortgage papers, vehicle titles, rental agreements, and insurance coverage details.

• Emergency contacts: A printed list of family, friends, and essential service numbers (in case phones or power go out).

The Assemblymen reminded residents that dangerous rip currents can linger for days after a hurricane has passed. “If the beach is closed or lifeguards warn against swimming, it’s best to stay out of the water,” McClellan added.

“We love our shore communities and want everyone to enjoy them safely,” Simonsen concluded. “By preparing now and listening to local officials, we can reduce risks and protect lives.”