Mayor Walsh reminds residents of safety tips ahead of winter weather

Mayor Martin J. Walsh today issued safety tips ahead of the low wind chill temperatures, and winter storm expected early next week.

A Wind Chill Advisory has been issued for Boston from 6 p.m. Thursday until Friday at 10 a.m. Temperatures will range between 6 below to 18 above zero the wind chill reading could be as low as 20 below.

Saturday through Tuesday, Boston is expected to receive an additional 8-15 inches of snow.

"While the City continues to work around the clock to clear our roads and sidewalks and remove the amount of snowfall Boston has received recently, we need residents to take extra precautions as we prepare for another storm and extremely low temperatures," said Mayor Walsh. "I continue to encourage residents to stay inside and off the roads as much as possible to stay safe and allow our Public Works Department to do their job. In addition, please remember to check on your neighbors."

This winter, Boston has received over 53 inches of snow, and the past week has seen the most snowfall in a 7 day period in City history. Due to the historic amount of snow that has recently fallen in Boston, accompanied with the low temperatures, Mayor Walsh is reminding residents to:

Dress warmly and take the proper precautions to avoid frostbite and hypothermia if it is necessary to be outdoors.
Have a contractor check the roof to see to snow needs to be removed. If roof snow can be removed from the ground with the use of a snow rake, do so with caution. Avoid working from ladders and be mindful of slippery surfaces.
Keep sidewalks clear of snow, but do not shovel snow into the street.
Shoveling snow in the street creates a safety hazard for emergency vehicles. The City of Boston is actively issuing citations for snow violations.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning remains a top concern. Remember to keep exhaust pipes and vents clear of snow. Sitting in a car while idling can be deadly if the tailpipe is blocked. Do not let children sit in an idling car while shoveling. Clear any household exhaust pipes of snow. For example, gas exhaust from heating system or dryer. Call 911 immediately if you suspect Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
Remember to keep catch basins and fire hydrants clear. A list of the City's fire hydrants and catch basins can be found here.
If you see a person in need of shelter, or if there is an emergency, please call 911.
Please check on neighbors, especially the elderly and disabled.
For those with questions or concerns, help is available through several channels. The Mayor’s Hotline (617-635-4500) is running around the clock and the City’s social media and mobile technology strategy will be in full effect throughout the storm, including the Citizens Connect app and @NotifyBoston.