MEMA Offers Storm Clean Up Safety Tips

By Liz Taurasi (Patch Staff)

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency officials say while storm effects in New England include large snow accumulation, extremely cold temperatures, heavy, wet snow or icing on trees and power lines, roof collapses, coastal flooding and beach erosion, they can also be deceptive killers because most deaths are indirectly related to the actual storm.

The major causes are automobile or other transportation accidents, exhaustion and heart attacks caused by overexertion, ‘freezing to death’ and asphyxiation from improper heating sources. House fires occur more frequently in the winter due to lack of proper safety precautions when using alternate heating sources, like unattended fires and space heaters. As with most potential disasters: preparedness, monitoring the Media and common sense can minimize the danger to you and your family.

Here are some important tips to keep in mind from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency as we continue with storm cleanup

• Help dig out fire hydrants and storm drains in your neighborhood.

• Large amounts of heavy snow on roofs may lead to structural weaknesses or collapses in some cases. Safety and preparedness tips for dealing with snow on roofs may be found on MEMA’s website.

• Be careful when shoveling snow. Over-exertion can bring on a heart attack – a major cause of death in the winter.

• Clear exhaust vents from Direct Vent Gas Furnace Systems to avoid Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. Also, never run an automobile until the exhaust pipe has been cleared of snow.

• Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating systems are well ventilated.

• Remember to shovel out your propane or oil tank in case you need a fuel delivery.

• Be aware of children playing in the streets, particularly climbing on or running out from behind large snowdrifts. Parents should remind their children to be aware of plowing operations and traffic.

• In the event of property damage from the storm, contact your insurer or agent ASAP. Document damage - photos, pictures and notes help.

• Call 2-1-1 for non-emergency storm-related questions.

• Be a good neighbor. Check with elderly or relatives and neighbors who may need additional assistance to ensure their safety.

View more tips for before, during and after a winter storm >>>