Monday, March 12, 2018
For Immediate Release
Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net
Taunton Police and Fire Departments Advise Residents Ahead of Third Nor’easter
TAUNTON — With a nor’easter forecast to hit the area for the third week in a row, Fire Chief Timothy J. Bradshaw, Police Chief Edward James Walsh and the Taunton Police and Fire Departments are urging residents to be prepared for severe weather.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Bristol County, noting the potential for blizzard-like conditions and heavy snowfall beginning Monday night and continuing throughout the day Tuesday.
“Strong winds and heavy snow can cause serious damage to trees, power lines and homes,” Chief Bradshaw said. “Residents should take steps to prepare themselves and their homes so that they can safely ride out yet another storm.”
“Everyone should be mindful what they can do to protect themselves from the types of hazards that storms like these can create,” Chief Walsh said.
Taunton could see between 10 to 15 inches of snow, and up to 18 inches in some spots. Temperatures during the storm are expected to be between 34 and 28 degrees. Wind could reach speeds of up to 23 mph.
BEFORE THE STORM
- Residents should be prepared for 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, laptops and tablets charged as much as possible. Consider a external battery for your devices.
- Neighbors should talk with one another and set up plans to assist those who may be at risk and/or in need of help.
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 your power goes out during the storm, contact the Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant at 508-824-3111 to report an outage.
- To report a gas leak, call 911. Residents can also contact Columbia Gas at 1-800-525-8222.
- If you have an emergency, call 911.
- Follow the Taunton Fire Department on its Facebook page and Twitter account for updates during and after the storm. You can also follow the Taunton Police Department on Facebook and Twitter for updates. The police and fire stations will be open throughout the storm. If you have an emergency, call 911.
AFTER THE STORM
- Clear snow from any gas vents attached to your home.
- Assist the fire department by shoveling out any hydrants near your home.
- 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.
- As the snow begins to melt, 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.
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