Suffield Police Post Storm Stats and Safety Message

SUFFIELD, CT — Suffield first responders had a busy Thursday during the heavy snowstorm that blanketed Connecticut.

The Suffield Police Department reported 20 motorist assists, including cars stuck in snow banks or that had slid off the road; three motor vehicle accidents, fortunately with no injuries, property damage only; and one report of trees down, which was quickly cleared by the Suffield Highway Department.

"The Suffield Highway Department, Fire Department, Suffield Volunteer Ambulance and Police Department worked very closely and collaborated to ensure public safety," Capt. Chris McKee said.

With that in mind, the police department issued the following statement to citizens:

"As we all dig out from the latest round of winter weather, there are some important safety messages we would like to relay to all residents of the Town of Suffield.

• Just because the snow has stopped, the roads are not all clear. Please allow the members of your Public Works Department time to clear the roads effectively before driving unnecessarily.
• DO NOT CROWD ANY PLOWS. They are working to keep you safe.
• Do not park in the roadway. Our plow operators need a clear path to make one for you.
• Remember that town ordinance requires that all fire hydrants and sidewalks be cleared by the property owner they are in front of.
• Do not run any internal combustion engine (snowblower, generator, car etc.) inside of an enclosed structure or house.
• Make sure that all the vents for your furnace are clear of snow. Many direct vent gas units have exhaust ports that may be buried in snow. This needs to be cleared away.
• The temperatures are going to drop tonight and we will experience bitter wind chills. Please limit outside activity and watch for signs of frostbite.
• While this snow may be dry, there is lots of it. Take it easy shoveling and allow breaks for your body to recover if you must shovel.
• Check on your neighbors. Regardless of their age, we all need a hand from time to time.

Photo courtesy of Suffield Police Department