Belmont Quietly Prepares for Earl

Yesterday afternoon,  Sept. 2,  Gov. Deval Patrick declared a State of Emergency throughout Massachusetts in response to the possible damage from Hurricane Earl as it produces high winds, heavy rain and a coastal storm surge late Friday into Saturday.

But in Belmont, Earl is more a part of everyday conversation than an active threat.

We are doing "nothing special any more than any other storm the way this one seems to be tracking," said Angus Davison, Belmont Fire's assistant chief, on news that the hurricane will be missing the outer areas of Cape Cod and the islands.

The Belmont schools will be holding classes today, Friday, Sept. 3, ending just before noon for all schools due to a long-scheduled half-day of classes.

Town offices will be closing early at 1 p.m. but the reason is this is the last week the town is on a shortened summer schedule.

If there is a worry in Belmont, it would be the possible flooding of low-lying areas and in neighborhoods that has a history of rising waters.

Davison said concerned residents should to the website of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Authority

"There is quite a bit of preparation information from MEMA at www.mass.govmema," he said Davison.     

As Hurricane Earl approaches, The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) recommends a number of steps people can take to help minimize potential damage during hurricane or tropical storm conditions.

"Early planning and preparation can be the key to your safety," states MEMA Acting Director Kurt Schwartz. 

"It is important to use your time wisely and not wait until the last minute."

Here are some examples of steps Belmont residents should be taking:

• In a town of 20,000 trees and memories of the June windstorm that leveled hundreds, residents should trim back trees and shrubbery around your home. Remove diseased or damaged tree limbs that could be blown down, causing damage, during a storm.

• Clear clogged rain gutters. Hurricanes/tropical storms often bring torrential rain. Providing clear drainage will help prevent misdirected flooding.

• Bring in outdoor items to bring inside such as lawn furniture, trash barrels, hanging plants, toys and awnings that can be broken or picked up by strong winds and used as a missile.
• Make sure storage sheds, children's playhouses or other outbuildings are securely anchored, either to a permanent foundation or with straps and ground anchors.

• Elevate articles in your basement that could be damaged from even minor flooding.
• Keep you vehicles fully fueled.
• Have a certain amount of cash available. If power is lost, ATMs may not be working.

• Many people back up important documents online.

• Learn where gas pilots and water mains are located and how to safely shut off all utilities.

        • Lock doors and windows to ensure that they are closed tight to help protect against strong winds and rain.