!IMPORTANT! 15 Fire & Life Safety Actions to Consider for this Weekend’s Storm

Fire Officials Urge Caution — 10 Fire Safety Tips During This Weekend’s Snowstorm

SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA — As a powerful snowstorm moves into the region this weekend, local fire officials and emergency management agencies are urging residents to take extra precautions to prevent home fires and carbon monoxide incidents. Heavy snowfall, high winds, and potential power outages can increase fire hazards.

Here are ten critical fire safety tips to keep you and your family safe:

1. Use Space Heaters Safely: Keep heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. Always turn them off before leaving a room or going to bed.

2. Check Smoke and CO Alarms: Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they’re working. Replace batteries if necessary.

3. Keep Exits Clear of Snow: Make sure all doors, walkways, and vent pipes remain clear in case you need to evacuate or emergency personnel need access.

4. Use Generators Outdoors Only: Never run generators inside the home, basement, or garage. Place them at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents.

5. Avoid Overloading Electrical Circuits: Do not connect multiple heating devices to one outlet or extension cord. This can overheat wiring and cause fires.

6. Maintain Fireplaces and Wood Stoves: Use only dry, seasoned wood, and keep screens or glass doors closed when in use. Dispose of ashes in a metal container outside.

7. Be Cautious with Candles: If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of open flames. Never leave candles unattended.

8. Clear Furnace and Dryer Vents: Snow and ice buildup can block vents, causing dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside your home.

9. Plan Two Ways Out: Make sure family members know at least two exits from every room in your home and have an emergency meeting spot outside.

10. Check on Neighbors: Older adults and individuals with disabilities may need assistance ensuring heating safety and smoke alarm functionality.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates and local emergency alerts. Firefighters remind the community: preventing fires starts with preparedness and awareness.

Emergency Medical Service Officials Urge Caution — 5 EMS Safety Tips During This Weekend’s Snowstorm

Here are five important safety considerations from local EMS officials:

1. Stay Home If Possible: Snow-covered and icy roads dramatically increase the chance of vehicle crashes and hinder emergency response. Limit travel to essential trips only.

2. Prepare for Delayed Response Times: Heavy snowfall may slow down emergency vehicles. Keep house numbers visible, clear driveways and walkways for responders, and keep a phone nearby in case of emergencies.

3. Prevent Cold-Related Illnesses: Dress in layers, limit outdoor exposure, and watch for signs of hypothermia or frostbite — including confusion, slurred speech, and pale or numb skin. Check on elderly neighbors and anyone with mobility issues.

4. Ensure Emergency Supplies Are Ready: Stock up on medications, oxygen tanks, and other medical essentials before the storm. Have a backup plan for power-dependent medical devices and notify your power company if you rely on them.

5. Use Generators and Heaters Safely: EMS teams often respond to carbon monoxide poisoning during winter storms. Keep anything that burns — including generators, grills, and heaters — outside and well-ventilated.

Additionally, Telford Borough residents are reminded that when a snow emergency declaration is in effect, streets marked with signs are required by law to have vehicles taken off the streets. This allows public works and emergency services to navigate the Borough and surrounding municipalities safely, and above all allow YOU the residents to leave for an emergency. These specific streets are the MOST important to consider:

Main Street (North & South)

Broad Street (East & West)

Church Rd (Rte. 152 and to Cowpath Rd)

4th Street

County Line Rd