Well, it has to start sometime so let’s get it out of the way……. that four letter word is back. S N O W. Shrewsbury Volunteers has begun Operation Snow Watch as a storm system is scheduled to drop frozen precipitation in our region for the first time this season. Yes, we know. It’s still days away however reports are in that shelves are beginning to become limited of the normal storm necessities.
Everyone is asked to keep an eye on the sky and keep informed with local weather stations as they do their best to tell us how much we are getting and what it will be (snow, ice, sleet, custard, Italian Ice…..) take your pick. We do ask everyone to check the following:
-Take a quick look at your storm drains and clear them of fallen leaves is necessary. When the frozen mixture falls and begins to melt water must be able to enter the storm drains. If they are blocked by leaves or debris water will pool and roadways will have standing water which will freeze.
– Your outside water faucets should be turned off inside your homes and drained to prevent frozen water pipes.
– If you are using your chimney for the first time is it clear? When was the last time you had your chimney cleaned and serviced by someone who knows what they are looking for? Chimney fires cause hidden fires in walls and once noticed can move quickly in your home.
– Check your Carbon Monoxide detectors (and smoke detectors while you are there) for functionality. If you have gas appliances in your home you should have CO Detectors in place on each floor.
-Check your furnace filters for cleanliness. If they are clogged up and dirty the furnace efficiency drops and the chance of a failure are increased due to pressure building up in the system.
Keep in mind no matter what drive system you have on your vehicles (two wheel drive, four wheel drive, front or rear drive) all cars slide on ice. Once a 1/4 inch of ice forms on the roads your stopping distances are dramatically increased. Keep an eye on the roadways for snow and ice accumulations. Nothing is worth excessive speeds especially in winter conditions. Please drive carefully so we do not have to respond. Please, Let’s not meet by Accident!!
So, enjoy the week and enjoy that outside event your are planning. What can go wrong, right?
Prepare for our first winter weather event, and remember help is just a call away.
