summary of Boston Cold Weather Safety Information
This document provides important information from the City of Boston regarding safety during cold weather, covering health risks, heating guidelines, safety tips, plumbing protection, and emergency resources. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Health Risks & What to Do:
* Frostbite: Look for pale appearance in extremities (fingers,toes,ear lobes,nose). Seek immediate medical attention if detected.
* Hypothermia: Watch for uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, slurred speech, drowsiness, exhaustion. Contact a healthcare provider promptly; call 911 for severe symptoms.
2. Heating Guidelines (for Property Owners & Tenants):
* Heating Season: sept 15 – June 15.
* Minimum Temperatures: 68°F (7am-11pm), 64°F (11:01pm-6:59am).
* Tenant Action: Check thermostat, report insufficient heat to landlord/manager.
* Unresponsive Landlord: call 311 to file a complaint.
3. Heating Safety:
* Never Use: charcoal/gas grills, kitchen stoves as heaters.
* Annual maintenance: Have heating system cleaned and checked.
* detectors: Install & maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level.
* Space Heater Safety: Keep 3ft from combustibles, turn off/unplug when leaving room or going to bed.
4. Preventing Frozen Pipes:
* Know Your Shut-Off: Locate and learn to use your main water shut-off valve.
* Insulate pipes: Insulate pipes in unheated areas (basements,garages).
* Circulate air: Keep cabinet doors open around pipes.
* trickle Water: Let a trickle of water flow during extreme cold.
* protect Meter: Protect water meter from drafts.
* Thawing: Thaw frozen pipes slowly with a hairdryer (never use open flame). Call BWSC at 617-989-7000 if water is lost in all taps.
5. Emergency Repair Resources:
* 311 / Boston Home Center (617-635-HOME): Assistance for income-eligible homeowners & residents over 60 with winter emergencies (storm damage, leaks, furnace issues, frozen pipes).
* Mayor’s Seniors Save Program: Helps income-eligible seniors (60+) replace old heating systems. contact 311 or the Boston Home Center.
* Inspectional Services Department (ISD): Increased staffing during extreme weather.
6. Stay Informed:
* Alert Boston: Sign up for alerts, including cold-weather alerts.
This information is crucial for staying safe and prepared during Boston’s cold winter months. It emphasizes proactive measures, recognizing warning signs, and knowing were to turn for help.
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