Dartmouth prepares for impending snow storm

With Dartmouth expected to get between eight and 15 inches of snow onSunday, Jan. 25 and Monday, Jan. 26, the Department of Public Works and the town are taking preparations and have some tips.

A parking ban will be in effect  from 9 a.m. Sunday to 11 p.m. on Monday. To be able to plow, they ask people to park on the side without a fire hydrant. If there is no hydrant, to park on the side with even-numbered houses. 

Crews will treat the roads early Sunday, and then continue with plowing. Plowing will happen in two parts. First, half the road will be plowed so that emergency vehicles can access houses if needed. They will return after this to finish plowing the roads. 

To prepare, Public Works Director Tim Barber recommends stocking up on non-perishables, staying off the roads unless necessary as there is a large chance it will be icy, and he advises residents to try to get a generator or snow plow if possible. 

To further prevent leaving the house, trash pickup for the town of Dartmouth has been pushed to Tuesday, Jan. 27.

The fire departments are also preparing for the storm by checking their equipment and monitoring. If the storm is severe enough, they will be doing a “stand by,” where a number of firefighters sleep at the station in case of emergency. 

A firefighter from District 1 recommended having candles, flashlights and water in case of power loss. 

Other recommendations from the town include charging phones and devices, ensuring that smoke and fire alarms are working, filling the gas tank in cars and insulating doors and windows. They also recommend an emergency kit with winter supplies, clothing and blankets, and keep it someplace like the car. 

The town also asks people to stay indoors, and layer if leaving is necessary. Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat homes, and only use generators outside. Using unsafe heating methods could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. 

The main threats of cold are frostbite, which has signs of numbness and pale skin on extremities, as well as hypothermia, which has signs of shivering, confusion, exhaustion, memory loss and slurred speech. Remember to check in on neighbors who may need extra help. 

For updates on whether businesses will be open, follow the Town Hall on social media.

Stock up on necessities, stay inside when possible and stay safe.