Ross A. Atstupenas
Chief of Police
15 St. Paul St.
Blackstone, MA 01504
For Immediate Release
Monday, March 12, 2018
Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net
Blackstone Police Department Advises Residents Ahead of Third Nor’easter
BLACKSTONE — Chief Ross A. Atstupenas and the Blackstone Police Department are warning Blackstone residents to be prepared as the third nor’easter in as many weeks moves toward the region.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Worcester County, noting the potential for blizzard-like conditions and heavy snowfall beginning Monday night and continuing throughout the day Tuesday.
Blackstone could see between 3 and 7 inches on Monday night and an additional 9 to 13 inches on Tuesday. Wind gusts could reach speeds of up to 39 mph.
Residents should note that a parking ban will be in effect starting at 10 p.m. on Monday, March 12 until further notice. Vehicles in violation of the ban will be subject to ticketing and/or towing.
“We’re expecting yet another round of heavy snow which will make travel extremely difficult during the day on Tuesday,” Chief Atstupenas. “Please, stay off the roads if you can and if you must travel use extreme caution.”
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.
- Anyone with a disability or medical issue is encouraged to call Blackstone Police ahead of time to request a well-being check during the storm.
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 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.
- Follow the Blackstone Police on their Facebook page and Twitter account for updates during and after 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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