East Bridgewater Department of Public Works Reminds Residents Not to ‘Crowd the Plow’

EAST BRIDGEWATER — In preparation for this evening’s potentially significant snowfall, Director John B. Haines and the East Bridgewater Department of Public Works remind residents to follow the advice of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and their “Don’t Crowd the Plow” campaign.

Drivers are encouraged to slow down, give snow fighting equipment extra space, and devote their full attention to driving. If a driver absolutely must pass a plow they are asked to do so with extreme caution, but should stay 200 feet behind a plow at all other times.

Potentially significant snowfall is expected throughout all of Plymouth County, beginning in the later hours of Wednesday, Dec. 16 and continuing through to Thursday afternoon. To view the National Weather Service’s forecast for East Bridgewater, click here.

Residents are reminded that they should always call 911 in the event of any emergency, including those relating to a winter storm (such as downed trees or power lines).

Snow Removal Operations

The Town of East Bridgewater has more than 20 snow removal units ranging from four wheel drive pick-up trucks to large dump trucks and several pieces of heavy equipment that may be assigned to snow removal. An additional 40 pieces of contractor equipment are required to supplement the town’s removal equipment.

Plowing operations begin after roadways have been treated and snow has accumulated to a depth of at least three inches on the roadway. It may be necessary to plow the roads several times during a storm. During a major storm, keeping main and through roads cleared is a priority.

In the event of an emergency, the DPW will respond immediately with all available equipment to provide access for police and fire vehicles, regardless of the classification of roadway or its priority level.

Within 24 hours of the completion of plowing operations, sidewalk plowing will begin. It takes approximately six hours to plow the sidewalks on all main and secondary through roads in town. Priority will be given to sidewalks in the downtown area and within the East Bridgewater Public School’s approved walking routes.

Residents are reminded that it is their responsibility to remove snow from sidewalks in a timely manner in front of their homes in residential neighborhoods.

Fire Hydrant Accessibility

The East Bridgewater DPW also asks residents to assist members of East Bridgewater Fire Department in clearing snow away from fire hydrants during and after a storm.

Clearly visible, accessible fire hydrants can save homes and lives in the event of a fire. If a fire hydrant is lost or buried in snow, firefighters can lose valuable time trying to locate it when they first arrive at a scene.

Residents can perform a valuable public service and protect themselves, their families and their neighbors by taking responsibility for shoveling out and clearing any fire hydrants near their home during and after a snowstorm.

The East Bridgewater DPW shares the following tips with residents:

• Know the location of all fire hydrants in your neighborhood.
• Make sure they are shoveled clear after each snowfall.
• Clear away any snow and ice in the area surrounding fire hydrants.
• Clear the snow three feet all around the hydrant so firefighters have enough room to connect a hose.
• Residents are also urged to look out for elderly or handicap neighbors by taking a few extra minutes to shovel out their hydrants as well if needed.

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