Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the massive Jones Road wildfire in South Jersey, which started on Tuesday morning near Barnegat Twp. As of press time, more than 13,000 acres had burned in Ocean County, the largest wildfire in New Jersey in about 20 years, and the blaze was about 50 percent contained. One person has been arrested for arson.
Anyone who was ordered to evacuate their home has returned, but there are still ways you can help. Here’s a list of some businesses and organizations that assist residents and first responders during times of emergency.
—Employees of Caliber Construction purchased $1,000 worth of meals from Eat Clean Bro in Eatontown (matching with another $1,000 worth of meals) and delivered the food on Thursday to members of Forked River Volunteer Fire Company, Lanoka Harbor Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 and Barnegat Volunteer Fire Company. Since April 24 is Bring Your Kids to Work Day, Caliber employees brought their children to help drop off the meals. Why not get your family involved and start a meal train, donating meals to the firehouses as well?!
–The American Red Cross and the Salvation Army are always in need of volunteers, supplies and donations.
–Baby2Baby’s Disaster Relief and Emergency Response Program provides emergency supplies to children during large-scale emergencies, including fires.
You can also donate to your local fire departments or show your appreciation by dropping off meals with a note of thanks for their tireless efforts.
There are also concerns of low air quality due to the traveling smoke. Experts from Hackensack Meridian Health suggest limiting time outdoors, wearing sunglasses, avoiding candles and vacuuming, using air purifiers and turning on the AC.
Since poor air quality can lead to breathing and heart problems, don’t smoke, and seek medical attention if you have shortness of breath or chest pain.
For tips on how to stay safe during the dry, hot wildfire season, visit the New Jersey Forest Fire Service’s website.
For updates on the Jones Road fire, check the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the New Jersey Red Cross and JCP&L.
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