2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins

>
> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
> June 1, 2017
>
> CONTACT
> Christopher Besse, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
> christopher.besse@state.ma.us<mailto:christopher.besse@state.ma.us>
>
>
> [cid:image002.png@01D239B4.C19A5820]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__twitter.com_MassEMA&d=DwIGaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=EMBKMwByiFUl_yvyp8o5tHoKTWgoa39WoBpqK7qF08Y&m=IVoRUUWfJbvvexF50k54Fy-EaIBk4GHE-sFGiuz-hc4&s=81hP6SGgDookTKhp8H2uzb0tbyJ2m29pcw3YPQkHV7U&e= > [cid:image003.png@01D239B4.C19A5820] <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.facebook.com_MassachusettsEMA_&d=DwIGaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=EMBKMwByiFUl_yvyp8o5tHoKTWgoa39WoBpqK7qF08Y&m=IVoRUUWfJbvvexF50k54Fy-EaIBk4GHE-sFGiuz-hc4&s=G7WHGo_AV8PulgbH4a5v1iMp82enrsiLXvdG3jF-JXY&e= > [cid:image006.png@01D239B4.C19A5820] <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_MassachusettsEMA&d=DwIGaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=EMBKMwByiFUl_yvyp8o5tHoKTWgoa39WoBpqK7qF08Y&m=IVoRUUWfJbvvexF50k54Fy-EaIBk4GHE-sFGiuz-hc4&s=wNdTNoEcOa5muyuR3Fg7_xQ-Sx9XNadvC39cAdRq79I&e= > [cid:image008.png@01D239B4.C19A5820] <http://www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp>
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> 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins
> Start of Hurricane Season is a Reminder to Prepare
>
> FRAMINGHAM, MA – Today, June 1st, marks the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season which runs through November 30th. While historically the majority of tropical storms and hurricanes that have impacted our region occurred during the months of August and September, it remains important to begin preparing yourself, your family, your home and your business now. Over the next few months the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) will share important preparedness information to help residents be aware of and prepare for the impacts of tropical storms and hurricanes.
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> The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) seasonal outlook predicts an above-normal number of hurricanes this season. Regardless of how many storms develop this year, it only takes one storm to severely impact an area. In 2011, Tropical Storm Irene produced devastating flooding in Central and Western Massachusetts. Irene was a reminder that hurricanes and tropical storms can impact the entire Commonwealth, not just coastal regions and all Massachusetts residents need to prepare for the possibility of hurricane impacts this season. To learn more about the hazards associated with hurricanes and tropical storms, visit the MEMA's hurricane webpage: www.mass.gov/mema/hurricanes<http://www.mass.gov/mema/hurricanes>.
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> "MEMA urges all residents of the Commonwealth to prepare for the impacts of a tropical storm or hurricane," said MEMA Director Kurt Schwartz. "As hurricane season begins, residents should learn if they live or work in a hurricane evacuation zone, make an emergency plan, assemble and emergency kit, and stay informed."
>
> Know Your Evacuation Zone
> Massachusetts has defined hurricane evacuation zones, designated as Zone A, Zone B and Zone C, for areas of the Commonwealth at risk for storm surge flooding associated with tropical storms or hurricanes. If evacuations are necessary because of a tropical storm or hurricane, local or state officials will use the hurricane evacuation zones to call for people living, working or vacationing in these areas to evacuate. It is important to note that even areas not directly along a coastline may be at risk for storm surge flooding during a tropical storm or hurricane. Find out if you live, work or vacation in a hurricane evacuation zone by visiting the 'Know Your Zone' interactive map located on MEMA's website at www.mass.gov/knowyourzone<http://www.mass.gov/knowyourzone>.
>
> Make an Emergency Plan
> Develop a plan with the members of your household to prepare for what to do, how to find each other, and how to communicate in a tropical storm or hurricane. An emergency plan should include:
> • Meeting Locations
> • Emergency Contact Plan
> • Evacuation Plans
> • Shelter in Place Plans
> • Consideration for Family Members with Access and Functional Needs, and Pets
>
> For more information, see: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/be-prepared/plan/.
>
> Build an Emergency Kit
> Build an emergency kit of items that will sustain you and your family in the event you are isolated for three to five days without power or unable to go to a store. Emergency kits are particularly important during hurricane season, as there is the threat of extended power outages, flooding, and impassable debris-covered roads. While it is important to customize your kit to meet the unique needs of you and your family, every emergency kit should include bottled water, food, a flashlight, a radio and extra batteries, a first aid kit, sanitation items, and clothing. Depending on your family's needs, emergency kits should also include medications, extra eyeglasses, medical equipment and supplies, children's items such as diapers and formula, food and supplies for pets and service animals, and other items you or your family members might need during a disaster. For a complete emergency kit checklist, visit: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/be-prepared/kit/.
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> Stay Informed
> Receiving advance warnings, timely emergency alerts, and information during a disaster is critical to staying safe during a tropical storm or hurricane. Every family should have multiple methods for receiving emergency alerts. Learn more about different types of alerting and information tools including Massachusetts Alerts Smartphone App, the Emergency Alert System, Wireless Emergency Alerts, NOAA Weather Radio, Social Media & Traditional Media, 2-1-1 Hotline, Local Notification Systems. For more information, please visit: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/be-prepared/be-informed/.
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>
> 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 Emergency Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema<http://www.mass.gov/mema>.
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> Continue to follow MEMA updates on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MassEMA<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.twitter.com_MassEMA&d=DwIGaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=EMBKMwByiFUl_yvyp8o5tHoKTWgoa39WoBpqK7qF08Y&m=IVoRUUWfJbvvexF50k54Fy-EaIBk4GHE-sFGiuz-hc4&s=e5nz9hEjANjSkwUCkq5eO-CoReTgV7uQ0vmZ3L8ENiQ&e= >; Facebook at www.facebook.com/MassachusettsEMA<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.facebook.com_MassachusettsEMA&d=DwIGaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=EMBKMwByiFUl_yvyp8o5tHoKTWgoa39WoBpqK7qF08Y&m=IVoRUUWfJbvvexF50k54Fy-EaIBk4GHE-sFGiuz-hc4&s=QrDKGxHLppMKZxCz-eDDIAG817OKMPMdp2_pRIVAabY&e= >; YouTube at www.youtube.com/MassachusettsEMA<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.youtube.com_MassachusettsEMA&d=DwIGaQ&c=lDF7oMaPKXpkYvev9V-fVahWL0QWnGCCAfCDz1Bns_w&r=EMBKMwByiFUl_yvyp8o5tHoKTWgoa39WoBpqK7qF08Y&m=IVoRUUWfJbvvexF50k54Fy-EaIBk4GHE-sFGiuz-hc4&s=z6Xu_L9t5uwvWi2c1qZKAQZgzbLVSZunw-iTJnYiU5U&e= >.
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> Massachusetts Alerts: to receive emergency information on your smartphone, including severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service and emergency information from MEMA, download the free Massachusetts Alerts app. To learn more about Massachusetts Alerts, and for information on how to download the free app onto your smartphone, visit: www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp<http://www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp>.
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Winter Storm Warning issued

Winter Storm Warning issued March 12 at 3:36PM EDT until March 14 at 1:00PM EDT by NWS Boston

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 5 AM TO 1 PM EDT TUESDAY... ...BLIZZARD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH LATETUESDAY NIGHT... The National Weather Service in Taunton has issued a Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow, which is in effect from 5 AM to 1 PM EDT Tuesday. A Blizzard Watch is in effect from Tuesday afternoon through late Tuesday night. * LOCATIONS...Eastern Massachusetts as well as central and southern Rhode Island. * HAZARD TYPES...Heavy snow and the potential for blizzard conditions. * ACCUMULATIONS...Snow accumulation of 12 to 18 inches with a low risk for isolated amounts up to 2 feet across northeast MA. * TIMING...Snow overspreads most of the region between 4 and 8 am Tuesday morning. The snow will quickly become heavy with 2 to 4 inch per hour snowfall rates possible at times through Tuesday afternoon. The heavy snow will taper off to snow showers Tuesday night. * IMPACTS...Heavy snow, poor visibility and strong winds will make for extremely hazardous travel and many roads may become impassable. Strong winds will bring the potential for blizzard conditions and near white- out conditions at times. Considerable blowing and drifting snow is also expected. The strong winds will also bring the risk for scattered tree damage and power outages...especially near the coast. * WINDS...North 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. * VISIBILITIES...One quarter mile or less at times. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an emergency. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. A Blizzard Watch means there is a potential for considerable falling and/or blowing snow with sustained winds or frequent gusts over 35 mph, with visibilities below one quarter mile, for at least 3 hours. Whiteout conditions will be possible, making travel very dangerous. Be prepared to alter any travel plans.

Fwd: Roof Collapse and Snow Removal Safety Information

Roof Collapse and Snow Removal Safety Information

Residents and Businesses are Strongly Encouraged
to Have Snow and Ice Cleared from Roofs

FRAMINGHAM, MA – In light of the recent back-to-back snowstorms, including this past weekend's heavy snow accumulation, and the potential for more snow and\or rain in the future, property owners, managers and tenants are strongly encouraged to have snow and ice cleared from roofs before another storm hits the area, exacerbating the risk of roof and\or structural failure and damage from ice dams.

Homeowners, tenants, and businesses should be cognizant of the danger posed by heavy snow loads on roofs, and the importance of recognizing the warning signs of potential structural weaknesses.  In many instances, the risks posed by accumulated snow can be mitigated by safely removing snow from roofs.  Flat and low pitched roofs, most often found on industrial buildings, but also used in certain home designs, are at the greatest risk of buckling under heavy snow and ice accumulations. Snow on roofs, particularly around gutters and soffits, also may contribute to ice dams and damage from water leaking into walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.

To safely remove snow from roofs, the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Department of Fire Services (DFS) and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) recommend the following tips:

DO

·        Use a snow rake for pitched roofs (available at most hardware stores and home centers) to remove snow from your roof.

·        Start from the edge and work your way into the roof.

·        Try to shave the snow down to 2 or 3 inches on the roof instead of scraping the roof clean, which will risk damage to your shingles or other roof covering.

·        Keep all ladders, shovels and roof rakes away from utility wires.

·        Plastic shovels are usually best. Metal tools may cause damage to your roof.

·        Shovel snow from flat roofs throwing the snow over the side, away from the building.

·        Remove large icicles carefully if they're hanging over doorways and walkways. Consider knocking down icicles through windows using a broom stick.

·        Protect gas and electric meters and piping from falling snow, icicles, and melting water.

·        Wear protective headgear and goggles when performing any of these tasks.

·        Consider hiring professionals to do the job. The combination of heights and ice makes this a dangerous household chore. If you choose to do the task yourself, have someone outside with you to assist.

·        Keep gutters and drains clean, free of ice and snow and keep downspouts clean at ground level.

DO NOT

·        Do not add your weight or the weight of equipment to the roof.

·        Do not use a ladder since ice tends to build up on both the rungs of the ladder and the soles of your boots.

·        Do not use blow torches, open-flame, electric heating devices, or heat guns to remove snow and ice.

·        Do not try to remove ice or icicles from utility wires or meters. Call your utility company for assistance.

How to Recognize Problems with Roofs

·        Sagging roofs

·        Severe roof leaks

·        Cracked or split wood members

·        Bends or ripples in supports

·        Cracks in walls or masonry

·        Sheared off screws from steel frames

·        Sprinkler heads that have dropped down below ceiling tiles

·        Doors that pop open

·        Doors or windows that are difficult to open

·        Bowed utility pipes or conduit attached at ceiling

·        Creaking, cracking or popping sounds

What to Do if You Have Problems

·        If you notice any signs that you have a problem with your roof, or suspect a gas leak, leave the building immediately without touching light switches and call 9-1-1 from safely outside the building.

·        For general questions, call your local building or fire department business line.

Ice Dams

·        Ice dams can cause major damage to a home or building. Ice dams occur after a heavy snowfall, followed by a period of cold weather.  An ice dam is a wall of ice that forms at the edge of the roof, usually at the gutters or soffit. When it forms, the water backs up behind the ice dams and creates a pool of water which can leak into your home and cause damage to your walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas. Ice dams are caused, in part, by poor ventilation causing a temperature differential on the roof surface. To learn more, see the Preventing Ice Dams article from University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Other Safety Tips for Homeowners

·        Clear snow away from furnace and dryer exhaust vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home.

·        Clear snow from fire hydrants near your home or business.

·        Clear snow from storm drains near your home or business to prevent street flooding.


To receive emergency information on your smartphone, including severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service and emergency information from MEMA, download the Massachusetts Alerts free app. To learn more about Massachusetts Alerts, and for additional information on how to download the free app onto your smartphone, visit: www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp<http://www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp>.


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Fwd: iNWS Alert

Subject: iNWS Alert

New event. Areal Flood Watch from 1/23/2017 1:00 PM to 1/24/2017 10:00 AM EST for 01985. More information.

Baker-Polito Administration Warns Public of the Dangers of Thin Ice

Baker-Polito Administration Warns Public of the Dangers of Thin Ice

BOSTON, MA - With recent unseasonably warm weather conditions occurring throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, today the Baker-Polito Administration is asking the public to remain conscious of the risks associated with thin ice. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the Massachusetts State Police (MSP), the Department of Fire Services (DFS), and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) are warning the public of the potential dangers of thin ice on the state's many lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers.

"Ice can be deceiving because it freezes and thaws at different rates and ice thickness can vary depending on currents, springs, depth, and debris in the water," said MEMA Director Kurt Schwartz. "Residents should skate on bodies of water only after there has been a prolonged freeze and steps have been taken to ensure the ice is sufficiently thick.  Always remember, 'when in doubt, don't go out' on the ice."

"Throughout Massachusetts residents will find excellent outdoor recreational opportunities for the whole family to enjoy; however, it is incredibly important that we all remain fully aware of our surroundings, particularly during the winter months, to ensure everyone remains safe," said DCR Commissioner Leo Roy. "Falling through thin ice can very quickly become a tragedy, which is why we all must be diligent during this time of year."

The winter months offer many unique opportunities for the general public to explore and enjoy nature, such as ice fishing, ice skating, and snowmobiling.  Unfortunately, every year state and local officials receive and respond to reports of individuals falling through thin ice. An individual who falls into icy waters can quickly experience hypothermia, which can become deadly if not treated immediately. Hypothermia symptoms include shivering, dizziness, hunger, nausea, accelerated breathing, difficulty speaking, lack of coordination, fatigue, and an increase in heart rate.

"The most important thing to remember when someone or a pet falls through the ice, is don't become a victim yourself," said State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey. "Call 9-1-1 first to get help on the way; then reach with something long or throw something to help them before firefighters arrive."

Below are several ice safety tips everyone should follow when near bodies of water during the winter months:


*        Parents should always closely watch and supervise their children.

*        Never go onto ice alone.

*        Always keep your pets on a leash (if a pet falls through the ice, do not attempt a rescue - - call for help).

*        Beware of ice covered with snow. Snow can insulate ice and keep it from freezing. It can also hide cracks as well as other weak spots.

*        Ice formed over flowing water (including springs under the surface) is generally weaker than ice over still water.

*        Ice seldom freezes or thaws at a uniform rate. It can be a foot thick in one spot and an inch thick in another.

*        If a companion falls through the ice and you are unable to reach that person from shore, throw something to him or her (a rope, tree branch, even jumper cables from a car, etc.). If this does not work, go or phone for help. Get medical assistance for the victim immediately.

*        If you fall in, try not to panic. Turn toward the direction you came from, and place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface, working forward by kicking your feet. Once the ice is solid enough to hold you, and you can pull yourself out, remain lying on the ice (do not stand; lying down spreads your weight across a wider area, lessening your weight on any one spot) and roll away from the hole. Crawl back the way you came, keeping your weight distributed, until you return to solid ice or ground.

*        As the season progresses, plan accordingly and use caution, as the conditions of older ice greatly varies and is subject to rapid changes.

For further information regarding ice and winter safety tips, please visit the MEMA<http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/emergencies/cold/ice.html> and DFS<http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/dfs/osfm/pubed/fs-topics/ice-and-cold-water-safety.html> websites. The Massachusetts State Police remind individuals to call 911 in the event of an emergency, such as an individual falling through the ice. Additionally, several state parks and facilities provide outdoor recreational opportunities throughout the winter season, some of which have DCR rangers and/or staff facilitating many programs. Please visit the DCR's website<http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/> for details.

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