Dover Fire and Rescue urges safety first as storm bears down

posted on: 2/12/2017

As a winter storm bears down on Dover, with the potential for snow accumulations of 24 inches or more by Monday evening, Dover Fire and Rescue is asking residents and motorists keep safety in mind.

A blizzard watch is in effect for Dover through Monday evening, according to the National Weather Service. As the snow intensifies today, Dover Assistant Fire Chief Paul Haas is urging motorists to avoid driving, if possible.

"Road conditions will deteriorate quickly as the storm builds, continuing through Monday," Haas said. "We suggest people avoid driving, if possible, as a matter of safety and to allow snowplows to clear the roads."

Much of the snow removal operations on Monday will consist of maintenance plowing, Haas said, as crews work to keep the City's streets and road shoulders clear.

For anyone travelling during the storm, Fire and Rescue reminds motorists to avoid crowding snowplows, and to allow emergency vehicles to pass.

Other suggestions include:

• Keep generators a minimum of 10 feet from homes and make sure they are wired correctly;
• Clear vehicles of snow before driving;
• Keep all chimneys and vents clear to prevent carbon monoxide from backing up into the building. Some vents, such as pellet stove vents, may exit the building through a wall and are susceptible to being blocked by excessive snow buildup on the outside of the building;
• Keep all exits clear of snow so occupants can escape quickly if a fire, or other emergency, should occur. Keep in mind that windows should be cleared to allow a secondary means of escape in case the primary means of escape is blocked by fire. Keeping exits clear also allows emergency workers to access your building;
• Keep fire hydrants clear of snow;
• Be aware of thin ice under snow.

Fire and Rescue also reminds residents to check their roofs for excessive snow. Roofs with heavy snow can be at risk of collapsing. For those not able or uncomfortable removing snow, Haas suggests consulting with a roofing company or properly insured contractor.

Property owners should also check roof drains and gutters and make sure they are clear of snow and ice.

For more information about fire and building safety, call Dover Fire and Rescue at 516-6148.