Winter Storms Menu
dot Before a Storm
 dot During a Storm
 dot After a Storm		 In New England we have some experience with winter storms. We should not get over confident about our ability to cope. A major winter storm can be lethal. Preparing for cold weather conditions and responding to them effectively can reduce the dangers caused by winter storms. Please check weather reports from the local broadcast media or watch the Weather Channel (Channel 34 in Peabody).
BEFORE THE STORM:

Be familiar with winter storm warning messages.
(See Winter Storm Watches and Warnings below)
Service snow removal equipment and have rock salt on hand to melt ice on walk ways and sand or kitty litter to generate temporary traction. Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off.
  • Insulate walls and attic.
  • Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows.
  • Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
  • Have safe, emergency heating equipment available.
    A fireplace with an ample supply of wood or a small, well-vented, wood or coal stove with fuel
  • Install smoke detectors and check smoke detector batteries.
Keeping pipes from freezing.
  • Wrap pipes in insulation or layers of old newspapers.
  • Cover the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture.
  • Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing.
  • If pipes run through closets or kitchen cabinets keep the doors open
  • Know how to shut off water valves.
  • Businesses with sprinkler systems should make sure they take precautions against freezing

Have disaster supplies on hand, in case the power goes out.

  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Avoid using candles, which present a fire hazard. You really do not want to have a house fire during a major storm do you?
  • Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
  • First aid kit
  • One-week supply of food (include items that do not require refrigeration or cooking in case the power is shut off)
  • Non-electric can opener
  • One-week supply of essential prescription medications.
  • Extra blankets and sleeping bags
  • Fire extinguisher (A-B-C type)
  • Please check on elderly neighbors or neighbors with disabilities and see if they need help getting medicine, food or other supplies before the storm

Develop an emergency communication plan.

In case family members are separated from one another during a winter storm (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together.

Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.

Make sure that all family members know how to respond after a severe winter storm.
Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, or fire department, and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.

Kerosene Heaters

  • Kerosene heaters are illegal in Massachusetts. They are a severe fire hazard and should never be used inside a residential building.
Helping make our community a better, safer place to live!
Dial 9-1-1 in case of an Emergency!