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MEMA Home > Programs> Communication> News > Winter's Here in Earnest: Stay Safe During and After the Storm

Winter's Here in Earnest: Stay Safe During and After the Storm

 

January 12, 2011

1:00 PM

 

A old-fashioned Maine snowstorm continues to howl this afternoon and into the evening to early Thursday morning, depending where you are.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency joins the NWS Gray and Caribou Forecast Offices in urging all Mainers and visitors to pay close attention to weather warnings, and stay safe.

MEMA advises:

  1. Stay off the roads if you can. Near blizzard conditions are possible for coastal and interior Maine. Strong winds, low visibility, blowing and drifting snow will all make for extremely dangerous driving conditions. The fewer vehicles that are on the road, the easier it will be for snowplows to operate.
  2. Pay attention. The National Weather Service is tracking this storm closely. Stay “tuned in” to your best source of weather information to stay up to date on the latest predictions for the storm. Up to date weather warnings are posted at http://www.maineprepares.com
  3. If you lose power, use emergency generators and alternate heat sources safely. Carbon monoxide kills. Remember to keep outside vents for heaters and stoves clear of snow, as clogged vents may also pose carbon monoxide dangers.
  4. Check on neighbors and friends who may not be as well prepared.
  5. If you see a downed power line, stay away from it, and notify the electric utility.
  6. When you are cleaning up after the storm, remember to clear off roofs, and stove and appliance vents as well as walkways. Pace yourself when shoveling, and wear layers of clothing to stay warm.

To learn more about storm safety and preparedness, visit Maine Prepares

 

Contact:

MEMA
624-4400

 

Last update: 07/20/10