For Immediate Release

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net

Blackstone Police Advise Residents Ahead of Fourth Nor’easter This Month

BLACKSTONE — Chief Ross Atstupenas and the Blackstone Police Department would like to advise residents about another nor’easter coming to the region on Wednesday.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Worcester County, which will be in affect from  8 a.m. Wednesday until 8 a.m. Thursday. Snow is expected to begin after 10 a.m. Wednesday.

Blackstone could see between 5 to 9 inches of accumulation, according to the National Weather Service. Temperatures during the storm are expected to be between 40 and 30 degrees. Wind gusts could reach speeds of up to 38 mph.

Travel is expected to be very difficult at times with significant reductions in visibility. As with the other recent storms, Chief Atstupenas is asking residents to stay off the roads during the storm.

BEFORE THE STORM

• The Blackstone Police Department is announcing a mandatory snow parking ban. The ban is for tomorrow, March 21, from 8 a.m. until further notice. The ban will be lifted as soon as the roadways are clear. Vehicles in violation of the ban will be ticketed and/or towed.
• Residents should be prepared for power outages and stock up on batteries for flashlights or battery powered lanterns. If using candles, there should be a 3 foot ring of safety and be sure to keep them away from anything flammable or combustible.
• 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 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

• Do not go near or drive over any downed power lines.
• Clear snow from any gas vents attached to your home.
• Assist the fire department by shoveling out any hydrants near your home.
• 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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