Stamford Prepares for Weekend Storm

With a winter storm expected impact the area this weekend, with the potential for heavy snow, strong winds, and coastal flooding, Stamford officials are urging residents to be prepared.

“There is no such thing as being ‘over prepared’ for a storm like this. We are getting the city prepared and I urge residents to take the time to stock up on necessary supplies and plan to remain in a safe and warm location during the storm,” Mayor David Martin said in a statement.

The City’s Emergency Operations Center is tracking and monitoring the storm at this time. In preparing for the storm, the Office of Public Safety, Health and Welfare has instituted Winter Weather Preparedness and Response Protocols for all departments. All City departments are preparing to respond to this winter event.

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The city plans to provide its next update after 11 a.m. on Friday.

Reminders:

• Life threatening situations should be reported to 911.
• Downed power lines should be reported immediately to Eversource at 1-800-286-2000. Power outages may also be reported here.
• To report operational issues such as downed trees, etc., the Citizens Service Center is open for calls at 203-977-4140 during business hours. For non-emergency weather related issues after business hours, call 203-977-4444.
• The Government Center will be utilized as a warming station. If necessary, shelter and other pertinent information will be made available through the City’s website and the media.

Be Prepared Before the Storm:

1. Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit:

• Keep an extra cell phone car-charger in your automobile
• Bottled water, 3-5 day supply (1 gallon per person, per day)
• High-calorie, non-perishable food, i.e. granola/snack bars, etc.
• Flashlights/Battery operated lanterns
• Extra Batteries
• Blankets or Sleeping Bags
• Extra Clothes
• First Aid Kit

2. Develop and Rehearse an Emergency Plan: Organize a plan for you and your family, should there be an emergency. Always inform loved ones where you are and where you are going, in case you become separated or need to relocate. Teach family members how to use text messaging; text messages can often get around network disruptions when a phone call might not be able to get through.

3. Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: In the event of a power outage, portable generators should be operated safely. Outdoor grilling devices should never be brought inside the home for cooking or warmth. Only use generators and outdoor grills outside of your home and never in enclosed spaces such as garages, basements, or porches. Always run your generator outdoors as far from your home and your neighbors’ homes as possible (at least 20 feet) and away from doors, windows, and air intake vents.

4. Register with Stamford’s Emergency Notification System CT Alert to receive a phone message, text message whenever there is an urgent announcement or situational update. Visit www.ctalert.gov and click on the “Register for Alerts”.