Print
Share page with AddThis

SNOWSTORM SAFETY

SHOVEL OUT NEARBY HYDRANTS
WHEN THERE IS A FIRE, SECONDS MATTER! The Waltham, MA Fire Department is responsible for shoveling out all hydrants, however you can help them help you by shoveling out the nearest hydrants to your properties. Please clear a wide enough perimeter around the hydrant for firefighters to work (about 3 feet). Make sure to clear a path from the hydrant to the streetSee here for guidelines on how to locate nearest Waltham hydrant(s) to your property

 

SHOVEL OUT ALL EXITS AND VENTS
Home and business owners must protect themselves from dangers associated with snow build up and cold wintry weather. 

    • Shovel out all exits from your home or business. When there is an emergency, it is important to have more than one way out.
    • It is equally important to keep outside furnace, hot water and dryer vents clear of snow to prevent gases from backing up into the home and creating a carbon monoxide or fire hazard.
    • Remove snow and ice that is overhanging natural gas meters. Falling ice and snow can damage this equipment and result in a gas leak. Use caution and using a brush or broom is recommended.
    • Be aware of your gas meter and piping location before snow plowing or snow blowing; mechanized equipment can cause damage or leaks if it comes in contact with equipment.

    Natural Gas Leaks

    • If you suspect a leak, all occupants should leave the house immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.
    • After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call the National Grid 24-hour gas emergency number: MA: 1-800-233-5325
    • Do not return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe.

    Carbon Monoxide

    • If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in your home, go outside immediately and breathe deeply; then call 911. If symptoms, such as dizziness and nausea are severe, get medical attention before calling National Grid.

     

    FIRE PREVENTION

    • Do not overload wood stoves & please be sure that you are properly disposing of ashes. A single ember can remain hot for days, so put ashes in a metal container with a lid away from the house. Many fires start with ashes being put into plastic bags, cardboard boxes, and plastic trash bins.
    • Remember, space heaters need their space. Do not place them next to or near any flammable objects. Click here for space heater safety tips from Mass.gov
    • Test your smoke alarms & Carbon Monoxide detectors to make sure they are working. 
    • If you are using candles, please place them in a location that is safe and away from children. 
    • Do not use your oven for heat & do not use any type of grills indoor, as they can pose a serious risk of CO poisoning. 
    • You can prevent freezing pipes by letting hot and cold water faucets drip a trickle, and open cupboards under sinks to let heat circulate around the pipes.

     

    COMMON LIST OF ESSENTIAL NEEDS
    Please remember to check on your neighbors and gather this list of essential needs to ensure safety amongst yourself, your family, and your pets. It is always a good idea to keep electronics charged in the event of an emergency. 

    • FLASHLIGHTS
    • BATTERIES / CHARGERS
    • CANDLES
    • BLANKETS
    • SHOVEL
    • WARM SNOW GEAR / SNOW BOOTS
    • PET FOOD
    • BABY FORMULA / FOOD / DIAPERS
    • PRESCRIPTIONS
    • WATER
    • TOILETRIES
    • BOOKS AND GAMES