Posted March 2, 2018
NORTH READING — Police Chief Michael P. Murphy and the North Reading Police Department would like to advise residents to take caution Friday into Saturday as severe weather hits the region.
A powerful storm hit North Reading in the early hours of Friday morning and will continue into Saturday. Heavy rain, with a chance of snow is expected, along with winds gusting up to 55 mph that could cause power outages.
Public safety officials are coordinating preparation efforts with town officials as well as utility service providers. Residents are urged to call 911 if they discover any potential hazards.
“This storm has the potential to be extremely dangerous and damaging,” Chief Murphy said. “We advise residents to take caution and prepare their homes for the weather. To keep safe, stay indoors whenever possible.”
During the storm
• Be sure to have batteries for flashlights and battery-powered lanterns to use in the event of a power outage. If you must use candles, keep them away from anything flammable and do not leave them unattended.
• Keep cell phones charged.
• If possible, move or secure any outside items that could get blown by heavy wind gusts, such as lawn furniture.
• Clear any storm drains of debris.
• Stay off the roads and stay indoors, if possible.
• If power goes out during the storm, contact the Reading Municipal Light Plant at 781-942-6598.
• To report a gas leak, contact National Grid at 1-800-233-5325.
• If you have an emergency call 911.
After the storm
• Clear any debris from storm drains near your home to allow water to drain.
• Do not pump water from sump pumps into the road. The water can freeze and cause hazardous conditions if the temperature dips.
• Do not go near or drive over any downed power lines.
• Do not drive through large puddles. It only takes one to two feet of water to float a car.
