Fwd: MEMA Winter Safety Series: Ice Safety

MEMA ISSUES ICE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

 

FRAMINGHAM, MA – As temperatures drop, and bodies of water throughout the area begin to freeze over, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has issued information regarding safety precautions to be taken on our frozen lakes, rivers and ponds. 

 

"Before we experience a tragedy that is unfortunately too common this time of year, it is important that we remind everyone, particularly children, of the dangers of unsafe ice," said MEMA Director Kurt Schwartz.  "As lakes, ponds, streams and rivers throughout the Commonwealth freeze over, ice conditions may be very uncertain.  People may be a bit impatient to venture out on the ice for skating, hockey, ice fishing and other winter sports. We highly recommend the use of recreational skating areas provided by the Commonwealth and your local communities.  It is very important to exercise precaution and common sense."

 

Always check with your local police, fire or park department to ensure that safe ice conditions exist. However, due to the uncertainty and constant changing of ice conditions and the dangers presented, many departments will not endorse the safety of lakes, ponds, streams or rivers.  The strength and thickness of ice should be known before any activity takes place.

 

·    Never go onto the ice alone.  A friend may be able to rescue you or go for help if you fall through   the ice.

 

·    Always keep your pets on a leash.  If a pet falls through the ice do not attempt to rescue your pet, call 9-1-1 or go for help.

 

·    New ice is usually stronger than old ice.  As ice ages, the bond between the crystals decays, making it weaker, even if melting has not occurred.

 

·    Beware of ice covered with snow.  Snow can insulate ice and keep it strong, but can also insulate it to keep it from freezing. Snow can also hide cracks, weak and open ice.

 

·    Slush is a danger sign, indicating that ice is no longer freezing from the bottom and can be weak or deteriorating.

 

·    Ice formed over flowing water (rivers or lakes containing a large number of springs) is generally 15% weaker.

 

·    Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate.  It can be one foot thick in one spot and be only a few inches thick 10 feet away.

 

·    Reach-Throw-Go.  If a companion falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw them something (rope, jumper cables, tree branch, etc.). If this does not work, go for help or call 9-1-1, before you also become a victim. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately.

 

·    If you fall in, try not to panic. Turn toward the direction from which you came.  Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet.  Once out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand) and roll away from the hole. Crawl back to your tracks, keeping your weight distributed until you return to solid ice.

 

By following safety procedures, you can be safe and enjoy the many winter activities offered by the great outdoors.

 

MEMA is the state agency charged with ensuring the state is prepared to withstand, respond to, and recover from all types of emergencies and disasters, including natural hazards, accidents, deliberate attacks, and technological and infrastructure failures. MEMA's staff of professional planners, communications specialists and operations and support personnel is committed to an all hazards approach to emergency management. By building and sustaining effective partnerships with federal, state and local government agencies, and with the private sector - - individuals, families, non-profits and businesses - - MEMA ensures the Commonwealth's ability to rapidly recover from large and small disasters by assessing and mitigating threats and hazards, enhancing preparedness, ensuring effective response, and strengthening our capacity to rebuild and recover. For additional information about MEMA and Winter Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema.

Continue to follow MEMA updates on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MassEMA; Facebook at www.facebook.com/MassachusettsEMA; and YouTube at www.youtube.com/MassachusettsEMA. Download the free ping4alert! app to your Smartphone to receive important weather alerts and messages from MEMA.  Easy instructions are available at www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp.

 

Fwd: MEMA Winter Safety Series: #6 Extreme Cold

MEMA OFFERS PRECAUTIONS FOR EXTREME COLD WEATHER

 

FRAMINGHAM, MA – "As we enter the time of year when we can expect extremely low temperatures and wind chills, we all must take precautions to minimize the dangers presented by such severe weather," stated Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Director Kurt Schwartz. "To that end, MEMA presents these cold weather safety tips."

 

·       Continue to be aware of extreme weather conditions by monitoring Media reports.

 

·       Make sure you always have a well-stocked Winter Home Emergency Supply Kit that includes flashlights, portable radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food and a manual can opener.

 

·       Minimize outside activities, particularly the elderly and very young.  Also, consider your pets.

 

·       Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, rather than a single layer of heavy clothing.  Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.  Wear a hat, mittens and sturdy waterproof boots, protecting your extremities.  Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

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·       Excessive exposure can lead to frostbite, which is damaging to body tissue that is frozen.  Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and a pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, seek medical help immediately. 

 

·       Hypothermia can occur in extreme cases.  The warning signs are uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion.  If the person's temperature drops below 95 degrees, seek immediate medical care. 

 

·       Ensure you have sufficient heating fuel, as well as emergency heating equipment in case you lose electricity.

 

·       When utilizing alternate heating sources, such as your fireplace, wood stove or space heater, take the necessary safety precautions.  Keep a fire extinguisher handy; ensuring everyone knows how to use it properly. Test smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors.

 

·       If you lose your heat, seal off unused rooms by stuffing towels in the cracks under the doors. At night, cover windows with extra blankets or sheets.

 

·        Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.

 

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

 

·       To keep pipes from freezing, wrap them in insulation or layers of newspapers, covering the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture. Allow a trickle of warm water to run from a faucet that is farthest from your water meter or one that has frozen in the past.  This will keep the water moving so that it cannot freeze.  Learn how to shut off your water if a pipe bursts.

 

·     If pipes freeze, remove insulation, completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes or wrap them with towels soaked in hot water, starting where they are most exposed to the cold.  A hand-held hair dryer, used with caution, also works well.

 

• Make sure your car is properly winterized.  Keep the gas tank at least half-full.  Carry a Winter Emergency Car Kit in the trunk including blankets, extra clothing, flashlight with spare batteries, a can and waterproof matches (to melt snow for drinking water), non-perishable foods, windshields scraper, shovel, sand, towrope and jumper cables.

 

MEMA is the state agency charged with ensuring the state is prepared to withstand, respond to, and recover from all types of emergencies and disasters, including natural hazards, accidents, deliberate attacks, and technological and infrastructure failures. MEMA's staff of professional planners, communications specialists and operations and support personnel is committed to an all hazards approach to emergency management. By building and sustaining effective partnerships with federal, state and local government agencies, and with the private sector - individuals, families, non-profits and businesses - MEMA ensures the Commonwealth's ability to rapidly recover from large and small disasters by assessing and mitigating threats and hazards, enhancing preparedness, ensuring effective response, and strengthening our capacity to rebuild and recover. For additional information about MEMA and Winter Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema.

Continue to follow MEMA updates on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MassEMA; Facebook at www.facebook.com/MassachusettsEMA; and YouTube at www.youtube.com/MassachusettsEMA. Download the free ping4alert! app to your Smartphone to receive important weather alerts and messages from MEMA.  Easy instructions are available at www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp

 

Fwd: MEMA Winter Safety Series: #1 Preparing Your Family

MEMA'S WINTER PREPAREDNESS STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE THE STORM

Protecting Your Family and Home

 

FRAMINGHAM, MA – "Before snow, ice and severe winter weather hit the region, it is important that you take the proper steps to ensure the safety of your family and home," states Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Director Kurt Schwartz.

 

• Understand the winter terminology used by weather forecasters:

1.     Winter Storm Watch – Be alert, a storm is likely.

2.     Winter Storm Warning – Take action, the storm is in or entering the area.

3.     Blizzard Warning – Snow and strong winds combined will produce blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill.  Seek refuge immediately.

4.     Winter Weather Advisory – Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorists.

5.     Frost/Freeze Warning – Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause damage to plants, crops or fruit trees.

• Ensure your Winter Emergency Supply Kit is stocked with supplies to enable you to survive on your own for at least three to five days.  There should be a first-aid kit, essential prescription medicines, non-perishable foods (those that require no refrigeration such as canned goods, dried fruits and nuts), a manual can opener, water (one gallon per person, per day), flashlights and extra batteries along with a portable radio or NOAA Weather Radio, baby-care or pet supplies items, extra blankets, sleeping bags and a fire extinguisher.

·       Ensure that your Winter Emergency Car Kit is well stocked to keep you and your vehicle safe.

·       If a storm is coming that may bring power outages, fully charge your cell phone, laptop, and any other devices in advance of a power outage.

·       Do not call 9-1-1 to report your power outage or to ask for information, use 9-1-1 only for emergencies. Contact your utility company to report the outage and get restoration information. Call 2-1-1 with other winter-related issues.

• Consider purchasing a solar-powered or hand crank charger. If you own a car, purchase a car phone charger to enable you to charge your phone if you lose power at your home.
• Download the free ping4alert! app to your Smartphone to receive important weather alerts and messages from MEMA.  Easy instructions are available at www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp.
• Trim dead tree branches and limbs close to your home.  Ice, snow and wind can combine to snap limbs that can take down power lines or damage your home.
• Clean gutters.  Melting snow and ice can build up if gutters are clogged with debris.  When thawing begins, the water can back up under your roof and eaves causing damage to walls and ceilings.
• Check your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure adequate coverage.
• Ensure that your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors are working correctly and have fresh batteries.  Check your outside fuel exhaust vents, making sure that they are not obstructed by snow or ice. Never use cooking equipment intended for outside use indoors as a heat source or cooking device.
• Have your chimney flue checked for any buildup of creosote and cleaned if necessary to lessen the risk of fire.

·       Have sufficient heating fuel, as regular sources may be cut off.  Have the option of emergency heating equipment and fuel (a gas fireplace, wood burning stove or fireplace) so you can safely keep at least one room livable.  Be sure the room is well ventilated.

·       Make sure your home is properly insulated.  Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows to keep cold air out.

·       Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside to provide insulation.

·       To keep pipes from freezing, wrap them in insulation or layers of newspapers, covering the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture. Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing.

·       Know how to safely shut off gas, electric power and water valves.

·       If your water supply could be affected by a power outage (a well-water pump system), be prepared to fill your bathtub and spare containers with water.  Water in the bathtub should be used for sanitation purposes only, not as drinking water.  Pouring a pail of water from the tub directly into the bowl can flush a toilet.

·       If pipes freeze, remove insulation, completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes, starting where they are most exposed to the cold.  A hand-held hair dryer, used with caution, also works well.

·       If electric power is lost, do not open the refrigerator or freezer door.  Food can stay cold in a full refrigerator for up to 24 hours and in a well-packed freezer for 48 hours (24 hours if it is half-packed).  If you have medication that requires refrigeration, check with your pharmacist for guidance on proper storage during an extended outage.

·       Review the process for manually operating your electric garage door.

·       Be a Good Neighbor. Check in on friends, family, and neighbors, particularly those most susceptible to extreme temperatures and power outages such as seniors and those with access and functional needs.

 

MEMA is the state agency charged with ensuring the state is prepared to withstand, respond to, and recover from all types of emergencies and disasters, including natural hazards, accidents, deliberate attacks, and technological and infrastructure failures. MEMA's staff of professional planners, communications specialists and operations and support personnel is committed to an all hazards approach to emergency management. By building and sustaining effective partnerships with federal, state and local government agencies, and with the private sector - - individuals, families, non-profits and businesses - - MEMA ensures the Commonwealth's ability to rapidly recover from large and small disasters by assessing and mitigating threats and hazards, enhancing preparedness, ensuring effective response, and strengthening our capacity to rebuild and recover. For additional information about MEMA and Winter Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema. Continue to follow MEMA updates on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MassEMA; Facebook at www.facebook.com/MassachusettsEMA; and YouTube at www.youtube.com/MassachusettsEMA. Download the free ping4alert! app to your Smartphone to receive important weather alerts and messages from MEMA.  Easy instructions are available at www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp.

Fwd: MEMA Winter Safety Series: #2 Automobile Safety

MEMA ISSUES TIPS TO ENSURE SAFE WINTER DRIVING

Tips to Prepare Your Car for the Season

 

FRAMINGHAM, MA – The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has issued information to help people prepare for another New England Winter Season.  Attached are a list of Automobile Safety Tips and a list of items to be included in your Winter Emergency Car Kit.

 

"Since approximately 70% of winter deaths related to snow and ice occur in automobiles, now is the proper time for individuals and families to take the necessary steps to ensure their safety on the roads during the upcoming Winter Season," said MEMA Director Kurt Schwartz. "Winter weather can present challenges that can be made easier with some basic planning."

 

AUTOMOBILE SAFETY TIPS

·       Have a well-stocked Winter Emergency Car Kit.

• Keep your gas tank at least half-full.
• Install good winter tires with adequate tread and pressure. 
• Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal.  Keep all windows clear of snow and ice and keep your headlights and taillights clear, as well.
• Check your antifreeze, battery, windshield wipers and wiper fluid.
• Plan long trips carefully, listening to the radio or NOAA Weather Radio for the latest weather forecasts and road conditions.  Consider Public Transportation.
• IF there is poor visibility, drive with your headlights on to see and be seen.
• Let others know your timetable and primary and alternate routes. Allow extra time. The first ½" of snow is sometimes the most slippery. Allow adequate braking distance from the car in front of you.
• Slow down. Many times hazards like black ice are not seen until it is too late.  Remember bridges and overpasses can freeze up sooner than roadways.
• Be extra alert.  Snowdrifts can hide children or other vehicles.
• Yield to snowplows giving them plenty of room to safely do their job.  Be patient and follow at a safe distance.
• Travel during daylight hours, and if possible, take another person with you.
• If a blizzard traps you in your car, pull off the highway. Call 9-1-1.  Turn on hazard lights and hang a brightly colored distress flag/cloth from your radio antenna or window.
• Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are more likely to find you.  Do not set out on foot, unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter.
• Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm.  When the engine is running, crack open the window slightly for ventilation.  Periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
• Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion.  In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers and floor mats for insulation.  Huddle with passengers.
• Take turns sleeping.  One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration. 
• Be careful not to waste battery power.  Balance electricity energy needs: the use of lights, heat and radio.
• At night, turn on the inside dome light so work crews and rescuers can see you.
• After snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.

WINTER EMERGENCY CAR KIT

·       Flashlight with extra batteries

·       Charged cell phone/automobile charger

·       Basic first-aid kit

·       Necessary medications

·       Pocket knife

·       Blankets or sleeping bags

·       Extra clothes (include rain gear, boots, mittens, socks)

·       High-calorie, non-perishable foods (dried fruits, nuts, canned food)

·       Manual can opener

·       Container of water

·       Windshield scraper & brush

·       Fire extinguisher

·       Shovel

·       Sand/road salt/cat litter for generating traction

·       Tire chains or traction mats

·       Basic tool kit (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)

·       Tow rope

·       Battery jumper cables

·       Road flares/reflectors

·       Brightly colored cloth to utilize as a flag

·       Road maps

 

MEMA is the state agency charged with ensuring the state is prepared to withstand, respond to, and recover from all types of emergencies and disasters, including natural hazards, accidents, deliberate attacks, and technological and infrastructure failures. MEMA's staff of professional planners, communications specialists and operations and support personnel is committed to an all hazards approach to emergency management. By building and sustaining effective partnerships with federal, state and local government agencies, and with the private sector - individuals, families, non-profits and businesses - MEMA ensures the Commonwealth's ability to rapidly recover from large and small disasters by assessing and mitigating threats and hazards, enhancing preparedness, ensuring effective response, and strengthening our capacity to rebuild and recover. For additional information about MEMA and Winter Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema.

Continue to follow MEMA updates on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MassEMA; Facebook at www.facebook.com/MassachusettsEMA; and YouTube at www.youtube.com/MassachusettsEMA. Download the free ping4alert! app to your Smartphone to receive important weather alerts and messages from MEMA.  Easy instructions are available at www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp.