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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — As January's first major snow storm barrels towards the east coast, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh is out with some tips to help locals to take proper precautions before the snow starts to fall.
Here's a rundown of the Mayor's guidelines:
Travel:
- Be cautious when traveling on the roads - they may be icy or wet with temperatures ranging from 15-40 degrees over the long weekend.
- No need for space savers! There is NO parking ban in place at this time since a snow emergency has NOT been declared.
- The MBTA is running reduced service over the holiday weekend, which may be further impacted by the snow. Check here for more.
Shoveling:
- Property owners must fully clear snow, sleet and ice from sidewalks and curb ramps abutting the property within three hours after the snowfall ends, or three hours after sunrise if the snow ends overnight.
- When shoveling snow, remember not to throw it in the street - it could land you a fine.
- Remember to shovel out catch basins and fire hydrants too
Safety:
- Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a concern during winter weather, especially with the use of generators. Residents should be sure to use their home heating systems wisely and safely, and have a working carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home.
- Sitting in a car while idling can be deadly if the tailpipe is blocked. Do not let children sit in an idling car while shoveling.
- Check in on neighbors, especially older adults and those with disabilities.
Health:
- Watch for signs of frostbite: These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia: These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion.
- Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing.
Getting Help:
- If you see homeless and vulnerable individuals out in the cold who appear immobile, disoriented, under-dressed for the cold, or in some other form of distress, call 911.
- If you experience physical pains while shoveling snow, especially if you feel chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911.
- Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications through AlertBoston and utilize the 311 call center for non-emergency related issues.
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