For Immediate Release
Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019

Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3922
Email: ben@jgpr.net

Blackstone Police Department Provides Safety Tips Ahead of Two Upcoming Snowstorms

BLACKSTONE — Chief Ross A. Atstupenas would like to provide Blackstone residents with safety tips and precautions ahead of two snowstorms that are expected to effect the region on Friday and over the weekend.

According to the National Weather Service, Blackstone is expected to see a light snowstorm beginning early Friday morning with accumulation of less than an inch of snow. With temperatures in the 20s and 30s in the morning, the snow could turn to rain by Friday afternoon with a high temperature of 40 degrees predicted. The morning commute could be impacted by the storm and drivers should use caution on the roads.

A larger storm is predicted over the weekend with as much as 9-14 inches of snow forecast to fall from Saturday night into Sunday. Heavy snow is likely to change to an icy mix and then to rain, mainly across the southeast part of the state. There is a risk of strong wind gusts inland and coastal flooding.

This storm is likely to be followed by a flash freeze beginning late afternoon Sunday into Sunday night, with bitter cold air anticipated on Monday. A high of 12 degrees and a low of 5 degrees is expected.

“With these two first snowstorms of the new year, we want to remind residents of some precautions and safety measures they can take over the next few days,” Chief Atstupenas said. “As always if you have an emergency please call 911.”

BEFORE A STORM

• It is always a good idea to have extra batteries in the house. Residents should always 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 an 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 A STORM

• Stay off the roads during periods of snow and sleet. If there is a plowable amount of snow, 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 883-9516 gas-related issues.
• If you have an emergency, call 911.

AFTER A 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 in on your elderly or at risk family members and neighbors.
• During a power outage, never run generators indoors or in garages. Aim exhaust away from the home, and do not run generators near HVAC intake pipes.
• Do not use space heaters while sleeping.
• Never use your oven as a heat source.

###