Fire, Police, DPW and National Guard Work to Keep Roadways Clear

The Town of Coventry Emergency Management Agency (EMA) in cooperation with all Emergency Response Agencies and Human Services Agencies of the Town of Coventry continues its response to Hurricane Irene and preparations for its aftermath.

Currently the Coventry EMA is monitoring the storm and working hand-in-hand with the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency to gather information needed to make critical storm related decisions.

Wind speeds are expected to remain at tropical storm force through late this evening and are not forecast to fall below tropical storm force until tonight after midnight.

Situation Update:

• The Town of Coventry has experienced widespread power outages due to the large amount of fallen trees and downed power lines.
• There are reports of tree damage to residential homes but we have received no reports of storm related injuries.
• Several roadways are blocked by downed trees and power lines making travel extremely difficult.
• There are no reports of flooding from the Pawtuxet River or local ponds.
• The Shelter located at the Coventry High School will remain open until further notice.
• Mobile home residents may return to their homes, however there is no power at any mobile home park in Coventry.

We currently have Fire, Police, Department of Public Works and a detachment from the Rhode Island National Guard working with State DOT and National Grid to keep our roadways clear of wires and debris.

It is imperative that people stay in their homes and off of the roadways during this critical time. There is a great danger of falling trees and electrocution. Please allow us to clear the roadways of debris. 

Safety Tips:

Residents need to be especially careful during a loss of electrical power, as the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire increases at that time.

In order to power lights, to keep food cold or to cook, residents often use gas-powered generators. CEMA warn consumers NEVER to use portable generators indoors or in garages, basements or sheds. The exhaust from generators contains high levels of carbon monoxide (CO) that can quickly incapacitate and kill.

Please stay inside and off roadways during this storm. Be aware of downed trees, fallen electrical lines, flooding and flying objects.

Do not attempt to cross deep moving water or standing water.

Do not consume food or beverages that were exposed to floodwaters or areas containing debris or sludge.

Remember to wash hands before eating, drinking or smoking when exposed to floodwaters. Use hand sanitizer if clean water and soap is not available.

Points of Interest: 

1. School is canceled in Coventry Monday, August 29.
2. There will be no garbage pickup on Monday, August 29.
3. A parking ban will be in effect beginning at 12 p.m. on Saturday until further notice.

Shelter Information:

To accommodate anyone that may need shelter, the Coventry EOC has opened a shelter at the that will be remain open until further notice.

The shelter will NOT be able to accommodate family pets, please make alternative arrangements. As a last resort, the Coventry Animal Shelter will be able to accommodate a small number of pets, which will be subject to a first come, first serve basis due to space limitations. Coventry Animal Control can be reached at 822-9106.

For evacuation and shelter information, plese call our 24-hour information line at 822-6215. 

For more information regarding the planning by Coventry EMA you may go to the Town of Coventry website http://www.town.coventry.ri.us/.

Additional information may be obtained from the Rhode Island EMA at their website http://www.riema.ri.gov/whatsnew/.

The Coventry Emergency Management Agency thanks you for your cooperation!