Emergency Management Director/Fire Chief Christopher Coleman would like to share winter weather preparedness tips with community members to help them protect themselves during and after winter storms.
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. To help you stay prepared, the North Attleboro Fire Department (NAFD) shares the following safety tips from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS):
Winter Storm Watches/Warnings
The National Weather Service 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 National Weather Service will issue a watch ahead of a storm, indicating that the risk of a hazardous winter weather event has increased. However, its occurrence, location, and/or timing are 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:
- 5 inches or more of snow/sleet within 12 hours or 7 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 2 to 4 inches of snow is expected, causing significant inconvenience but not severe enough to warrant a warning.
Before a Storm
Community members are encouraged to do the following to prepare for a winter storm:
- Sign up via the Town’s Everbridge Alert system and other emergency alert systems to receive alerts, warnings and public safety information before, during and after storms.
- Ensure emergency kits are stocked with seasonal supplies and items tailored to your family’s specific needs.
- Prepare for power outages by fully charging your cellphone, laptop and other electronic devices. Consider purchasing a generator to provide power during an outage.
- Ensure your home is ready for emergencies: Clear rain gutters, maintain heating equipment and chimneys, remove dead or rotting trees around your property, and ensure you have sufficient heating fuel.
Ahead of a storm, community members should follow any parking bans activated by the North Attleborough Emergency Advisory Board (EAB). When a ban is implemented, the Town will notify residents in advance. Notifications will be posted on the Town’s website, social media, email alerts, and the sign in front of Town Hall. An announcement will also be sent via Everbridge. The ban stays in effect until the Department of Public Works (DPW) clears the roadways and declares them safe for regular travel. The lifting of the ban will be announced on the same channels and services used to announce the parking ban.
Please note that if you were previously signed up for CodeRed but haven’t signed up for Everbridge, you will need to sign up on Everbridge to receive a notification.
During a Storm
During a storm, community members should:
- Avoid driving during hazardous conditions and limit outdoor activities to minimize risk. If you must drive, follow MEMA’s driving safety tips.
- Protect yourself from the cold by dressing for the season. Instead of wearing a single heavy layer, opt for several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. Jackets and outer layers should be tightly woven and water-repellent to keep you dry and warm.
- During freezing weather, follow MEMA’s extreme cold safety tips.
- Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
After a Storm
After a storm, follow instructions from public safety officials. To report power outages, call the North Attleborough Electric Department at 508-643-6300. The Department of Public Works requests that residents stay off the streets until the roads are cleared. When shoveling snow, take frequent breaks to prevent overexertion and injury. 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.
