Jan 2, 2008 5:02 pm US/Eastern
Boston Braces For Bitter Cold Temperatures
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
As the mercury begins to head toward the freezing mark, Boston Mayor Tom Menino is urging people to stay safe and warm.
Over the next few days, conditions are expected to be bitter cold. According to meteorologist Ken Barlow, temperatures for Thursday are expected to be in the teens and the wind chill will be in the single digits. Friday will be slightly warmer, but the morning temperatures are expected to be in the single digits.
In anticipation of the cold weather, Menino is urging city residents to check on their elderly or disabled neighbors and be careful when using heating equipment, such as space heaters. "Winter is here and Boston will be experiencing bitterly cold weather. Boston residents need to take precautions to protect themselves against such cold weather," Menino said. "As a city, we must work together to ensure the safety of all our residents."
Tenants should have their apartments heated to 68 degrees during the day and 64 degrees at night, according to Menino. There is a "No Heat" hotline number for tenants to call if their landlords are unwilling properly set temperatures in their apartment buildings. That number is 716.635.5300 or 617.635.4500 after hours.
According the mayor's office, inspectional services responded to 16 "no heat" calls over the weekend.
The homeless are also a concern during the cold winter months -- especially when temperatures begin to drop dangerously low. People are asked to call 911 when they spot a homeless person in danger from the extreme cold.
SAFETY TIPS FOR WINTER WEATHER:Provided by the Boston Fire Department• Never use your oven for heat
• Electric powered portable heaters should never be left on while sleeping and should be kept at least three feet away from combustible materials.
• Do not overload electrical sockets
• Never leave candles unattended
• Carbon Monoxide detectors are now required in homes by law. They must be within 10 feet of sleeping areas.
• Working smoking detectors should be on each floor of your home, particularly near bedrooms.
• In case of a power outage, stock up on batteries, flashlights and canned goods
HEATING ASSISTANCE RESOURCESABCD (Action for Boston Community Development) - 617-357-6012
If you have a complaint about your oil dealer's service, call Mayor Menino's Office of Consumer Affairs and Licensing at 617-635-3834.
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