Winter Storm Hernando is making its arrivall into the Northeast soon. We would like to specifically thank Phil for seeing his shadow…..this is your fault, enough already.

As all have seen by noe, this will bring Blizzard conditions to our area. Large snow accumulation of 12 to 20 inches, wind gusts up to 55mph, potential whiteout conditions making travel extremely dangerous. There is one simple answer to all of these issues, STAY HOME!

Basic Things To Keep In Mind….

-If you don’t need to be out, don’t be….

-Since we all cleared out our local fire hydrants in the last storm right…..we remember where they are and we will be doing that great of a job again right?

-With the potential high winds, the possibility of down/falling trees and power lines are unfortunately possible. If you encounter them, STAY AWAY FROM THEM…ESPECIALLY LIVE POWER LINES. Call 911 and let us handle the emergencies. Take the necessary steps to prepare yourselves if this occurs. Keep cellular devices charges, ensure you have working flashlights, and if your heating sources stop working make sure to have extra blankets. DON’T GET CREATIVE & TRY TO USE YOUR OVEN OR STOVE TO HEAT YOUR HOMES. If using wood stoves or fireplaces, dispose of ashes CORRECTLY!

-If you happen to have a loss of power and use a generator, do so safely. Ensure that it’s running a safe distance from your home and the exhaust aimed away from the house. Carbon Monoxide is the Colorless & Odorless Gas that is the silent killer. Granted those Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors are in working order right?….well if you have to question that, since you’ll be home for the next day or 2 how about we check them if you can’t confidentially say they are working…..

-If using space heaters or alternative heating sources, do so safely. Keep them away from combustible materials and if not in the same room, turn them off upon exiting.

-12 to 20 inches is a pretty large amount of snow. Especially when you are moving it around shoveling
& plowing it’s a nightmare, we just want it out of the way. Keep in mind to try and keep access/egress to your home in case of an emergency. Keep all vents clear on the exterior of your homes. Again, blocked vents can cause household utilities to work incorrectly causing exhaust and fumes to make there way back into your home. Having blocked exhuast pipes may juts cause them to stop working altogether.

Your OFD Volunteers will be on standby beginning this afternoon. The safety of all of you and our members are the priority.

Travel will be potentially impossible from tonight into Monday late morning. Westchester County has declared a Travel Ban beginning tonight at 9pm continuing till Monday morning at 10am. Allow essential services and road crews to safely do their jobs.

Check back for updates during the storm…..