Timothy J. Bradshaw, Fire Chief
50 School St.
Taunton, MA 02780
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net
Taunton Fire Department Warns Residents Ahead of This Week’s Snowstorm
TAUNTON — On the heels of last week’s powerful March nor’easter that knocked down trees and caused widespread power outages, Fire Chief Timothy Bradshaw is warning Taunton residents to prepare for a snowstorm that is expected to hit the region this week.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch, hazardous weather outlook and wind advisory for Bristol County, noting the potential for significant rain and snowfall, as well as high wind speeds Wednesday morning into Thursday.
Additionally, a flood warning remains in effect until further notice for the Taunton River, affecting both Bristol and Plymouth counties.
Taunton is likely to see a mixture of rain and snow and wind speeds could reach as high as 16 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.
“The mixture of rain, snow and high winds could mean more power outages in Taunton,” Chief Bradshaw said. “We encourage all of our residents to prepare for the storm and the possibility of losing power by following these safety tips. As always, don’t hesitate to call us at the fire department in the event of an emergency or if you need help.”
BEFORE THE STORM
- Check the surrounding areas outside of your home and examine trees that have been weakened or uprooted from last weekend’s storm. If there is a tree that you believe is unstable and may fall, please contact a local tree trimming service company immediately.
- Residents should be prepared for more power outages and stock up on batteries for flashlights or battery powered lanterns. If using candles, keep them away from anything flammable and never leave them unattended.
- Keep cell phones charged as much as possible. Consider a external battery for your mobile phone.
- Clear any storm drains of debris from the last storm to avoid flooding.
DURING THE STORM
- Stay off the roads and stay indoors, if possible. Give plow and sand/salt trucks the space they need to operate.
- If power goes out during the storm, contact Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant (TMLP) at 508-824-3111 to report an outage.
- To report a gas leak, call 911. Residents can also contact Columbia Gas at 800-525-8222 for gas-related issues.
- If you have an emergency, call 911. If you experience flooding in your home contact the Taunton Fire Department at 508-821-1452 .
AFTER THE STORM
- Do not go near or drive over any downed power lines.
- Check your property for any trees that could be in danger of falling near your home or vehicles.
- Clear any debris from storm drains near your home to allow water to drain.
- Do not pump water from sump pumps into the road. The water can freeze and cause hazardous conditions if the temperature dips.
###