Ross A. Atstupenas
Chief of Police
15 St. Paul St.
Blackstone, MA 01504
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net
Blackstone Police Warn Residents Ahead of This Week’s Winter Storm
BLACKSTONE– On the heels of last week’s powerful March nor’easter that knocked down trees and caused widespread power outages, Police Chief Ross A. Atstupenas is warning Blackstone residents to prepare for a snowstorm that is expected to hit the region this week.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for Worcester County, noting the potential for significant snowfall with possible accumulations of 12 to 15 inches Wednesday morning into Thursday afternoon.
Blackstone is expected to see heavy snowfall and wind speeds could reach as high as 16 mph with gusts as high as 33 mph.
“Before the storm hits, we encourage residents to be proactive and make sure they’re ready for significant amounts of snow and possible power outages,” Chief Atstupenas said. “Always have flashlights close-by and make sure your phone is charged in case of an emergency.”
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 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 an 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 National Grid at 800-465-1212 to report an outage.
- To report a gas leak, call 911. Residents can also contact Blackstone Gas at 508-883-9516 for gas-related issues.
- If you have an emergency, call 911. If you experience flooding in your home contact the Blackstone Police Department at 508-883-1212.
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.
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