Stratford's Emergency Operations Plan for the Blizzard

From Mayor John Harkins

1) Forecasters are calling for a possibly historic storm over the next 24-36 hours. The latest forecasts for our area call for 18-24 inches of snow along with heavy winds and some coastal flooding.

2) I am declaring a state of emergency in Stratford as of 4 p.m. today. Residents are asked to wrap any final storm preparations as soon as possible and to be prepared to stay in their homes for up to 72-96 hours after the storm has ended. We are asking people to stay off all roadways as of 9 p.m. this evening.

3) Stratford’s Emergency Operations Center will open as of 4 p.m. today. For non-emergency storm inquiries, please call the blizzard info-line at 203-380-6757.

4) Stratford fire, police and EMS departments are fully staffed and operational. In the case of an emergency, all residents should call 911.

5) Stratford Public Works is fully staffed and prepared with equipment, fuel and supplies. Per my direction, the department has 77 pieces of equipment, including 29 pay loaders, for storm cleanup operations.

6) The Town’s alternate side of the street parking ban is in effect and will be enforced throughout the storm. Residents are asked to park their vehicles in a driveway, or alternatively off-site at either DeLuca field, Franklin School or Honeyspot School. Vehicles may be kept at the alternative parking locations up until 24 hours after the storm ends.

7) All beaches in Stratford are closed until further notice. The Town’s transfer station is also closed. Refuse and recycling pickups is cancelled for Tuesday, January 27th and collections will be done one-day later than usual for the rest of the week.

8) I ask that all residents heed the warnings from weather and emergency operations professionals and remain in their homes until cleanup can be completed. Stay safe, Stratford!