02/26/2026
PUBLIC SAFETY ANNOUNCEMENT
Post–Snowstorm Safety Reminder
From Your Local Fire & EMS Department
Following the recent significant snow event, we ask all residents to take a few important safety precautions to protect your family, neighbors, and first responders.
🚒 Adopt-a-Hydrant Program
Heavy snow can bury fire hydrants, delaying emergency response when seconds matter.
Clear snow in a 3-foot radius around hydrants.
Clear a path from the hydrant to the street.
Remove snow from the hydrant cap and side outlets.
Do not pile snow from driveways or plowing operations onto hydrants.
Adopting a hydrant in your neighborhood can make a critical difference in an emergency.
🔥 Carbon Monoxide Safety
Snow accumulation increases the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure.
Important reminders:
Ensure all exterior vents for furnaces, boilers, and dryers are clear of snow and ice.
Clear snow away from gas meters and exhaust pipes.
Never run vehicles in garages, even with the door open.
Never use generators, grills, or propane heaters indoors.
Make sure CO detectors are installed on every level of your home and have fresh batteries.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Confusion
If you suspect carbon monoxide, get outside to fresh air immediately and call 911.
❄ Refreezing & Ice Hazards
As temperatures fluctuate:
Melting snow will refreeze overnight, creating black ice on roads, driveways, and sidewalks.
Use ice melt and sand appropriately.
Walk cautiously and wear proper footwear.
Drive slowly and allow extra stopping distance.
Falls and vehicle accidents increase significantly during freeze-thaw cycles.
🌊 Ice Safety on Lakes, Ponds & Large Bodies of Water
Snow acts as an insulator and weakens ice formation. Recent temperature swings further compromise ice stability.
No ice is ever 100% safe.
Avoid snow-covered ice — you cannot assess thickness.
Keep children and pets off frozen ponds and lakes.
If someone falls through the ice, call 911 immediately. Do not attempt a rescue unless trained and equipped.
🚑 EMS & Home Safety Considerations
Clear snow from house numbers so responders can locate your home quickly.
Clear a path to all entrances, including bulkhead doors.
Ensure elderly neighbors have heat, food, and necessary medications.
Use space heaters safely — keep them at least 3 feet from anything that can burn.
🏠 Roof & Structural Safety
Watch for heavy snow loads on flat roofs.
Be aware of ice dams forming along roof edges.
Keep exits clear in case evacuation becomes necessary.
Check on Neighbors
Please check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors during extreme cold and after major storms. Community awareness prevents emergencies.
If you experience an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency public safety concerns, contact your local public safety department.
Your cooperation helps keep our entire community safe during winter weather conditions. Stay safe and thank you for doing your part.
