Tips from the City of Boston
Before a Winter Storm
Get ready
Sign up for emergency notifications through AlertBoston.
Follow instructions from public safety officials.
https://www.boston.gov/departments/emergency-management/city-boston-alerts-and-notifications#emergency-alerts
Make a plan and review it! If you receive medical treatments or home health care services, work with your medical provider to determine how to maintain care and service if you are unable to leave your home for a period of time.
Build an emergency kit. Be sure to add seasonal supplies to your kit, like extra winter clothing and blankets.
Prepare for possible power outages:
Fully charge your cell phone, laptop, and other electronic devices before a storm, especially if power outages are expected.
Consider purchasing a portable generator or installing a generator to provide power during an outage.
If you have a life support device or other medical equipment or supplies which depends on electricity, notify your utility and work with your medical provider to prepare for power outages.
Prepare your home:
Remove dead or rotting trees or branches around your home that could fall and cause injury or damage.
Clear clogged rain gutters to allow water to flow away from your home. Melting snow and ice can build up if gutters are clogged with debris.
Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
Properly insulate your home. 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.
Check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working and have fresh batteries.
Ensure you have sufficient heating fuel and consider back up heating options, such as fireplaces or woodstoves.
Prepare your vehicle for winter driving. Keep the gas tank at least half-full and have a winter emergency car kit.
If you have a pet ensure you have enough supplies for them.
After a Winter Storm
Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies and 311 for all non-emergency matters, including downed power lines and gas leaks.
Clear snow from sidewalk (within 3 hours after snowing stops) on your property. This includes nearby curb cuts at least 42-inches wide to allow access for wheelchair users and those pushing strollers.
Clear exhaust vents from direct vent gas furnace systems to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Dig out fire hydrants and storm drains in your neighborhood.
Property owners and businesses should clear snow from walkways, entrances and access ramps.
Check your roof and clear accumulated snow.
Use caution and take frequent breaks when shoveling snow.
Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live.
Stay off streets and roads until they are clear of snow.
Clear snow from around vehicle exhaust pipes before starting the vehicle.
Don't park too close to corners so public safety vehicles and plows can maneuver safely.
Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating stems are well-ventilated because their fumes contain carbon monoxide.
Be aware of children playing in the streets, particularly climbing on or running out from behind large snowdrifts. Parents should remind their children to be aware of plowing operations and traffic.
Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions. and those who may need additional assistance.
Continue to monitor media for emergency information.
Follow instructions from public safety officials.