State of Emergency Declared: Region Prepares for Tropical Storm Sandy

Safety Tips from the BPD Designed to Help You Prepare for Tropical Storm Sandy

A state of emergency has been declared in Massachusetts and as Tropical Storm Sandy makes its way up the east coast, Mayor Tom Menino wants to make sure you know what safety steps to take before the storm arrives. As is the case with any major storm, issues like power outages and downed power lines are always areas of concern. As such, Mayor Thomas Menino and the Boston Police Department would like residents of the City of Boston to exercise healthy levels of caution and care when confronted by downed power lines. Today, Saturday, October 27, Superintendent William Evans and Harbormaster Sgt. Joe Cheevers reinforced the importance of staying out of harm’s way by staying at home and staying off the water. Said Superintendent Evans, “Based on past storms, our biggest concern centers on downed wires, tree limbs and, sometimes, trees that fall onto roadways. We want community members to stay home and off the roads. From a response perspective, if we have to respond to an emergency, fewer cars on the road means we can respond quicker and more effectively.”

Safety Tips for Tropical Storm Sandy:

HOME:

• Outdoor objects (such as lawn furniture, hanging plants, Halloween decorations and garden tools) should be secured or stored in a basement or garage.
• If you have a sump pump for your basement, make sure it’s working and functional.
• Avoid the use of open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light. Flashlights are safer and smarter.

POWER OUTAGES:

• If the power goes out, notify NSTAR immediately at 1(800) 592-2000 or by email at www.nstar.com.
• If you see a downed power line, steer clear. Downed wires can be deadly. If you do see one, assume it’s electrified and avoid it all costs.
• If a wire falls on your car, remain inside the vehicle until help arrives. If your basement takes on water, stay out of the basement and away from the breaker box.

SUPPLIES:

The Red Cross suggests the preparation of a storm kit. A kit should include the following items:

• Water: One gallon per person – per day is suggested.
• Food: Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods like tuna fish, peanut butter, crackers and canned fruit. Don’t forget the can opener.
• A battery powered flashlight (or radio) with plenty of extra batteries.
• A first aid kit.
• Medication: A seven-day supply of prescription and non-prescription medications.
• Extra cash. ATMs and credit cards won’t work if the power goes out.
• Extra blankets or sleeping bags.
• Pet supplies: Don’t forget to stock up for your furry friends.

ON THE WATER:

Harbormaster Boston Police Sgt. Joe Cheevers offers the following safety tips and preventative measures to those with boats presently moored or anchored in and around Boston Harbor.

• In the best interests of protecting your property, if you have a boat anchored or moored in the water, it’s best to take it out.
• If you can’t remove your boat, the second best of course of action is to take additional steps to reinforce dock lines used to tie and secure your vessel.
• During the storm, stay off the water.
• Curiosity seekers should stay away from the shore line and any area that could place them in harm’s way.  Healthy levels of caution, care and common sense should rule the day.