5 Things Not To Do In This Blizzard

The snow is already starting to pile up, and while shelves at local shops may be light on milk and bread as people stock up for the blizzard, we wanted to remind you about some things you should avoid through the storm, which is forecast to end around midnight on Tuesday.

1. Don’t drive! As of 11pm tonight, all roads will be closed to all but emergency vehicles. Get gas before the storm gets intense this afternoon, but then keep that car parked — perhaps on the left side of the street, as plows push snow to the right, and remember to take that scraper and brush out of the car so you can get back in. As Councilmember Brad Lander really put it best: “Remember how many cars got stuck in the middle of the road during the big blizzard of 2010 (making plowing impossible)? Don’t be that guy.”

2. Don’t go outside if possible: Strong winds could mean falling trees and branches, which can also mean dangerous downed power lines — if you see one, don’t go near it, and call 911 to report it. And as of 6pm tonight, all parks in the city will be closed until further notice.

3. Don’t forget your neighbors: Check in on elderly neighbors and people with disabilities while you’re shoveling, and help them if you can.

4. Don’t call 911 for non-emergencies: For issues like downed tree limbs, unplowed streets, or other unsafe but not urgent conditions, call 311.

5. Don’t forget to stay safe indoors, too: If you must use a space heater, keep it far away from combustible materials, and an eye on it. Never use your oven to heat your home. Let water run very slightly from your taps to keep your pipes from freezing. Don’t overload electrical circuits. Keep your phone charged, and make sure you have flashlights ready. And make sure the batteries in your smoke alarm/carbon monoxide detector are working!

Finally, one thing you should do: If there’s anything your neighbors may need to know about, from downed tree limbs to power outages and more, let us know at editor@bklyner.com so we can help spread the word!