Blizzard Warning in Place, Local Sheltering Resources Available
EASTON — Chief Justin Alexander and the Easton Fire Department would like to share additional information regarding preparations, safety and sheltering information ahead of this weekend’s major winter storm.
At this time, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Blizzard Warning for much of eastern Massachusetts beginning at midnight, Saturday, Jan. 29. The NWS issues Blizzard Warnings for expected frequent wind gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, which frequently reduces visibility to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more. The warning indicates that whiteout conditions are possible and people should not travel.
The most recent forecast indicates that snow accumulations of 17 to 22 inches are possible, with wind gusts as high as 60 miles per hour. Travel conditions are expected to be extremely difficult to impossible. Considerable blowing and drifting snow along with near whiteout conditions are possible at times, and strong winds could cause tree and property damage or power outages in some areas.
Residents are reminded that the forecast can change quickly and at any point and are urged to closely monitor the local forecast throughout the weekend.
Preparations and Sheltering Information
Town officials continue to monitor the storm and receive information from the NWS through the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. If you have an immediate need for sheltering please contact Easton Police at 508-230-3322 and press 0, and Easton Police will put you in contact with the sheltering team.
Residents should plan to stay off the roads and stay indoors, if possible, for much of the weekend. Travel will likely be hazardous and plow and sand/salt trucks will need time and space to operate.
Considerations Ahead of a Winter Storm
- Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full so you can leave right away in an emergency and to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
- Keep handy a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat, water-resistant boots, and extra blankets and warm clothing for each member of the household.
- Check your emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply, especially medications and medical supplies. Keep it nearby.
- Prepare for possible power outages.
- National Grid customers can click here to sign up to receive alerts via text, phone call or email when their power goes out. National Grid’s “Outage Map” can be viewed here.
- Residents can call National Grid directly to report power loss at 1-800-322-3223. Do not call 911 to report an outage or to ask about power restoration.
- Be sure you have ample heating fuel. If you have alternative heating sources, such as fireplaces, wood- or coal-burning stoves, or space heaters, be sure they are clean and in working order.
- Review generator safety: Never run a generator in an enclosed space.
- Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris. During or after the storm, make sure it is cleared of snow.
- Home fires are common each winter when trying to stay warm. Review ways to keep your home and loved ones safe.
Precautions for During a Winter Storm
- Stay indoors and wear warm clothes. Layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing will keep you warmer than a bulky sweater. If you feel too warm, remove layers to avoid sweating; if you feel chilled, add layers.
- Bring your companion animals inside before the storm begins. Move other animals to sheltered areas with a supply of non-frozen water.
- Check on relatives, neighbors, and friends, particularly if they are elderly or if they live alone.
- If you must drive during winter weather conditions, make sure all fluid levels are full and ensure that the lights, heater and windshield wipers are in proper working condition.
- Don’t leave the house without the following: A fully charged cellphone, car charger and an emergency supplies kit in your car. Ensure your kit includes additional layers of clothing and non-perishable food.
- If your car gets stuck during a storm, stay in the vehicle. If you leave your vehicle, you will become disoriented quickly in wind-driven snow and cold.
Precautions for After a Winter Storm
- Stay informed by receiving alerts, warnings and public safety information and pay attention to the information provided by local authorities. Residents can also listen to local area radio, NOAA Radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates.
- Stay off the roads and stay indoors, if possible. Give plow and sand/salt trucks the space they need to operate.
- Remain cautious even once conditions have improved. Even if roadways have been cleared of snow following a storm, any water left on the roadways may freeze, resulting in a clear sheet of ice, also known as black ice. Black ice is patchy ice on roadways that cannot easily be seen.
- Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
Residents are also asked to assist firefighters by clearing snow away from fire hydrants during and after the storm. Snow should be cleared 3-5 feet all around the hydrant so firefighters have enough room to connect a hose.
For additional winter storm safety information, visit NWS or the Red Cross. For any other questions on cold weather safety please visit weather.gov.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to monitor the following town sources for ongoing updates regarding the storm and local available resources:
- Easton Fire Department Facebook and Twitter
- Town of Easton Facebook and Twitter
- Easton Police Department Facebook and Twitter
- Plymouth Bristol Emergency Alert System – CodeRed
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