Safety Tips Following A Winter Storm

After a Winter Storm

  • Continue to monitor media for emergency information.
  • Follow instructions from public safety officials.
  • Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies, including downed power lines and gas leaks.
  • Check with your local authorities or call 2-1-1 to find locations of warming centers or shelters near you or for other storm-related questions.
  • In the event of power outages during cold weather, you may need to go to a warming center or emergency shelter to stay warm. Report power outages to your utility company.
  • Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live.
  • Stay off streets and roads until they are clear of snow.
  • Use caution and take frequent breaks when shoveling snow to prevent overexertion. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter.
  • Clear exhaust vents from direct vent gas furnace systems to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working as it is a silent, odorless, killer.
  • Clear snow from around vehicle exhaust pipes before starting the vehicle to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating systems are well ventilated because their fumes contain carbon monoxide. See more Generator Safety Tips.
  • Dig out fire hydrants and storm drains in your neighborhood.
  • Check your roof and clear accumulated snow to avoid roof collapses.
  • Don’t park too close to corners so public safety vehicles and plows can maneuver safely.
  • Be aware of children playing in the streets, particularly climbing on or running out from behind large snowdrifts. Parents should remind their children to be aware of plowing operations and traffic.
  • Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions and those who may need additional assistance.

(Information provided by Mass.gov / Winter Storm Safety Tips)

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