For Immediate Release

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

*Joint Release*

Raynham Police and Fire Departments Offer Important Blizzard Update

RAYNHAM — With today’s blizzard in full swing, Police Chief James Donovan and Fire Chief James T. Januse would like to provide Raynham residents some information in case there are widespread power outages in town and the need for an emergency shelter arises.

If there is a power outage affecting Raynham, a shelter will be opened at the Williams Intermediate School, 200 South St. in Bridgewater.

A message will be sent to residents via the Code Red Alert system if/when the shelter will be opened. Anyone needing transportation to the shelter should call the Raynham Operations Center at 508-824-2714.

If you would like to receive Code Red messages visit the Plymouth County Sheriff Department’s website or download the Code Red Alert app to your smart phone.

The department will also share local updates regarding the shelter and other storm related information with WVBF 1530AM, WBZ 1030AM and The Raynham Channel (Channels 9 and 98 on Comcast and channels 33 and 34 on Verizon).

Additionally, updates will be shared on the Raynham Police Twitter account @RaynhamPD. If you do not have Twitter but would like to receive tweets on your cell phone text “Follow Raynhampd” to the number 40404. After texting 40404 you will begin to receive tweets from the Raynham Police Department on your phone.

To report power outages to the Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant call 508-824-3111.

For emergencies call 911 and for non-emergencies call the Raynham Police Department at 508-824-2716 or 508-824-2717 or the Raynham Fire Department at 508-824-2713 or 508-824-2714.

WEATHERING THE STORM

• The police and fire stations will be open throughout the storm. If you have an emergency, call 911.
• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Give plow and sand/salt trucks the space they need to operate.
• A parking ban for Raynham roads is in effect until 9 a.m. Friday January 5.
• Fully charge your cell phone, laptop and any other devices before the storm.
• If you believe there is a gas leak in your home or nearby, call 911.

COLD CONTINUES ON

With this type of weather, frostbite and hypothermia are possible for those without proper protection from the cold. To stay safe, the Raynham Police and Fire Departments ask that residents follow these tips from the MEMA:

• Minimize outdoor activities for the whole family, including pets.
• If outside, dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing instead of a single heavy layer. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Wear a hat, mittens (not gloves) and sturdy waterproof boots to protect your extremities. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• Be a good neighbor. Check with elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors to ensure their safety.
• When utilizing alternate heating sources, such as an emergency generator, your fireplace, wood stove, coal stove or space heater, make sure they are properly ventilated and always operate a generator outdoors and away from your home. Improper heating devices can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in the home.
• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Locate the area of the water pipe that might be frozen. Likely places include pipes running against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water.
• Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame devices. A blowtorch can make water in a frozen pipe boil and cause the pipe to explode. All open flames in homes present a serious fire danger, as well as a severe risk of exposure to lethal carbon monoxide.

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