Beth Jacob Congregation has committed itself to the ongoing supervision and checking of our Eruv. In addition to the Eruv Vaad Halacha, we continue to consult with Talmidei Chachamim versed in the intricacies of Eruvin regarding both construction and maintenance of the Eruv. Wherever and whenever a problem develops, we will move as quickly as possible to fix it. Nevertheless, weather conditions and other natural and manmade problems will sometimes cause an Eruv to fail. Nobody should use the Eruv without making sure it is operational for that Shabbos. Therefore, EVERY Erev Shabbos one should do one of the following:
Call the ERUV hotline after 1:00 P.M. at 619-287-9890 (option 6) and/or check the official website for the status for that week.
Please note that even if the Eruv was up before Shabbos, a storm or strong winds during the course of Shabbos will presumably disqualify. In case of storm or the like assume the Eruv is down and desist from its usage.
AVOIDING PROBLEMS
To avoid disappointment and inadvertent Chilul Shabbos (Desecration of Shabbos), no Kiddush, bar mitzvah, bris, aufruf, or other joyous event should be planned under the assumption that the Eruv will be operational. Preparations should proceed as if there is no Eruv. Examples of such advance planning include that food should be brought to the location before Shabbos, a copy of the bar mitzvah boys. speech should be brought to shul before Shabbos, and the like. One should not assume that an event will take place outdoors.
