In Massachusetts, winter storms can range from freezing rain and ice to moderate snowfall over a few hours to blizzard conditions, with blinding wind-driven snow lasting several days. The North Attleborough Fire Department (NAFD) would like to share the following safety tips, courtesy of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and National Weather Service (NWS), for community members to take the proper safety precautions this winter:
Winter storm watches/warnings Â
The NWS issues watches and warnings to alert the public of potential winter storms and blizzards. Community members are encouraged to know the difference between watches and warnings so they can stay safe.
The NWS will issue a watch ahead of a storm as it indicates the risk of a hazardous winter weather event has increased. However, its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain.
A watch may be upgraded to a warning as the storm nears. A winter storm warning is issued when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent. Significant and hazardous winter weather is defined as a combination of:
- Five inches or more of snow/sleet within 12 hours, or seven inches or more of snow/sleet within 24 hours
- And/or enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or powerlines.
- And/or a life-threatening or damaging combination of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind.
The NWS may also issue a winter weather advisory for freezing rain or when two to four inches of snow is expected to cause a significant inconvenience but not severe enough to warrant a warning.
Before a storm Â
Community members are encouraged to do the following to prepare for a winter storm:
Sign up via the Town’s CodeRed Alert system and other emergency alert systems to receive alerts, warnings and public safety information before, during and after storms.
- Ensure emergency kitsare stocked with seasonal supplies and supplies for the family’s specific needs.
- Prepare for power outages by fully charging cellphone, laptop and other electronic devices. Consider purchasing a generator to provide power during an outage.
- Ensure that the home is prepared for possible emergencies. Clear clogged rain gutters, maintain heating equipment and chimneys, remove dead or rotting trees around the home to prevent them from falling, and ensure sufficient heating fuel.
Ahead of a storm, community members should follow any parking bans activated by the North Attleborough Emergency Advisory Board (EAB). When the EAB implements a parking ban, the town will provide advance notification via the website, social media accounts, email alerts and the town sign in front of the Town Hall. The town will also send out an announcement via CodeRed.
The parking ban will remain in effect until the Department of Public Works (DPW) clears the roadways and declares them safe for regular travel. The lifting of the parking ban will be announced on the same channels and services used to announce the parking ban.
During a storm Â
During a storm, community members should:
- Avoid driving during dangerous conditions and minimize outdoor activity. If you must drive, follow MEMA’s driving safety tips.
- Protect yourself from the cold by dressing for the season. Instead of a single heavy layer, wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. Jackets and outer layers should be tightly woven and water-repellent.
- During freezing weather, follow MEMA’s extreme cold safety tips.
- Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
After a storm Â
Community members must follow instructions from public safety officials after a storm. To report any power outages, they should call the North Attleborough Electric Department at 508-643-6300. The DPW encourages residents to stay off the streets until the roads are cleared.
Community members should use caution and take frequent breaks when shoveling snow to prevent overexertion. When shoveling, please dig out fire hydrants and storm drains near your property.
As always, community members are encouraged to check on family, friends, and neighbors after a storm, especially those with medical conditions or who may need additional assistance.
Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact the NAFD Public Education Team at nafd_publiceducation@nattleboro.com.
