Storm Safety Tips

This weekend's forecast calls for heavy rain along with windy conditions. The Wakefield Municipal Gas & Light Department (WMGLD) recommends taking the following steps to be ready for windy conditions and the possibility of heavy rain that could result in flooding conditions and downed trees:

·Never approach or touch downed wires.

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·Secure or bring in outdoor objects (patio furniture, toys, trash cans, etc.) that could become projectiles in strong winds.

·Gusty winds can bring down tree limbs and branches, especially on trees that are still laden with leaves, which can cause power outages. Prepare for possible power outages by fully charging your cellphone, laptop, and other electronic devices before the storm and setting your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings.

·If you use electricity to get well water, fill your bathtub with water to use for flushing toilets.

·"Turn Around, Don't Drown!" Don't drive through flooded roads. Cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water.

·Avoid driving or going outdoors during a storm. Flooding and damaging winds can make traveling dangerous.

·If your area is prone to flooding, elevate items in your basement, check your sump pump, and clear nearby catch basins.

·Be informed by receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies.

·Make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working correctly in the event of an outage.

·Check all outside areas before the storm to make sure they are clear of overgrown bushes, leaves and debris.

·Make sure you have nonperishable supplies like food, water, and an ample/extra supply of prescription medicine.

·If you have a generator, know how to safely use it before you need to. Never run a generator in an enclosed space.

·Stay indoors during the storm and drive only if it is absolutely necessary and safe to do so.

WMGLD General Manager Pete Dion said. "If you do experience a power outage, you should report it to us at 781-246-6363; do not call 911 unless you have an emergency. You can monitor outages on our website www.wmgld.com."