For Immediate Release
Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015

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

Blackstone Announces Emergency Parking Ban

Schools, Town Buildings CLOSED Monday

BLACKSTONE — Police Chief Ross A. Atstupenas and the Blackstone Police Department report that the Town has declared an Emergency Parking Ban, in advance of the severe winter storm approaching the region.

Schools will be closed on Monday, Feb. 2.

The Emergency Parking Ban will go into effect at Midnight and will remain in effect until at least Midnight on Tuesday. All vehicles parked on town roadways will be towed if they are on the street during the parking ban.

“We have a significant amount of snow projected, with extremely cold temperatures,” Chief Atstupenas said. “This snow will fall on top of the packed snow that we all have been clearing since the blizzard las week. We ask all Blackstone residents to work with us to keep everyone safe. Please stay off the roads.”

The Departments offer the following tips:

• Never use your oven as a heat source
• Do not use electric or space heaters while sleeping.
• Keep electric or space heaters at least three feet away from bedding or combustible materials.
• Keep stocks of batteries on hand for radios and flashlights in case of a power outage.
• Never leave candles unattended.
• Beware of carbon monoxide and stay safe by: never warming up your car in the garage, serving your heating system at least once per year, and making sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and change batteries twice per year. Make sure smoke detectors are working on every floor of your home.
• During the coldest days, parents are reminded to dress students warmly, in layers, with hats on and exposed skin covered. However, make sure the clothing does not obstruct your child’s visibility as they are crossing the street.

When the snow falls, you can help the Blackstone Fire Department by shoveling out your nearest fire hydrants. Also ensure that your home or business sidewalks are properly shoveled, and place salt or ice melt to prevent people from falling.

When shoveling snow or walking outside for more than a few minutes, dress appropriately, with exposed skin covered, and wear a hat and gloves. Frostbite and strike quickly when temperatures are this low. Also, Do not consume too much caffeine before or during shoveling, avoid getting wet, and take frequent breaks.

ALWAYS clear the tailpipe of a vehicle that is buried in snow BEFORE you start or warm up the vehicle. Failure to do so can be fatal for those inside the vehicle.

Utilities in Town

National Grid Electric: 800-465-1212

Blackstone Gas Company: 508-883-9516

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