Georgetown Fire

Georgetown Firefighter Glenn Silva Retires after 41 Year Career

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GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred A. Mitchell Jr. would like to announce the retirement of Firefighter and EMT Glenn Silva after a 41 year career with the Georgetown Fire Department. 

A Georgetown resident, Firefighter Silva joined the department in 1978 and rose through the ranks, serving as a Lieutenant, Captain and Deputy Chief throughout his career. He also served as the department’s Fire Chief for three years in the 1990s. 

Firefighter Silva’s last day with the Georgetown Fire Department is today, Tuesday, Dec. 31. 

“Firefighter Silva has been a tremendous asset to the Georgetown Fire Department for many years, and it has been a pleasure for us all to work alongside him,” Chief Mitchell said. “Georgetown has been very fortunate to have someone as dedicated to this community and the fire service as Firefighter Silva, and we wish him the very best in retirement.”

Firefighter Silva is trained in numerous areas of the fire service, including ice rescue and auto extrication, and assisted the department in implementing its Master Box Fire Alarm system for the town shortly after he joined the department. 

The Georgetown Fire Department held a surprise retirement party for Firefighter Silva at the Erie Fire Station on North Street on Saturday, Dec. 28.

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Georgetown Fire Department Offers Holiday Fire Safety Tips

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GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred A. Mitchell Jr. and the Georgetown Fire Department wish to remind residents of important safety tips this holiday season. 

More than half of fires in December sparked by holiday decorations are caused by candles, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

“There are a lot of fire hazards present over the holidays, and it is important for everyone to pay attention as they set up their holiday trees and decorations, prepare meals, light candles and so on, to prevent fires,” Chief Mitchell said.

The Georgetown Fire Department wishes to share the following holiday safety tips from the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services:

Christmas Tree Safety

  • It is recommended that residents seeking a natural tree purchase one that is fresh and cut it an inch or two from the bottom before putting it in water as soon as possible.
  • To test to see if a tree is too dry, bend a pine needle. If it breaks before bending in half, it is too dry. If pine needles fall off while you slowly pull your hand along the tree while holding it still, this is also a sign the tree may be too dry.
  • Water natural trees daily.
  • When the tree becomes too dry, dispose of it. Also dispose of trees soon after the holidays end.
  • Trees and decorations need to be displayed away from heat sources including heaters, fireplaces and candles.
  • Trees should be placed on stands with wide feet to prevent tipping, and wires can be used to tie a tree to keep it steady.
  • Residents should use electric holiday lights listed by an approved testing agency to decorate trees. People should also follow manufacturer instructions for tree lights. LED lights also use less electricity and are cooler in temperature. When using old lights, examine them for damage including frayed wires.
  • Do not allow tree light bulbs to directly touch the tree, curtains, wrapped gifts or anything flammable. Never place lit candles on or near a tree, and turn off tree lights when going to bed or leaving home.
  • For more information, visit www.mass.gov/news/state-fire-marshal-issues-holiday-decorating-safety-tips.

Outdoor Decoration Safety Tips

  • Only use lights rated for outdoor use when decorating outdoors.
  • LED lights are more energy efficient options and produce less heat.
  • Make sure to properly secure outdoor lights and decorations with insulated holders or hooks.
  • Keep water out by using electrical connection protectors.
  • Electric outdoor decorations should be plugged into a ground-fault circuit interrupter. Portable units can be purchased for outdoor use, or they can be permanently installed by an electrician.
  • Do not overload circuits.
  • Do not put nails, staples or tacks through wiring insulation.
  • After the holidays, take down and bring in outdoor electrical lights.

Candle Safety

  • When burning a candle, make sure there is a 1 foot circle around it that is cleared of anything flammable.
  • Blow out candles before leaving a room or building. Do not leave candles burning unattended.
  • Use a saucer or candle holder that is fireproof.
  • Make sure candles are kept out of reach of children and pets.
  • Consider using a flameless candle.

Cooking Safety

  • In the event of a grease fire, smother flames with a lid and then turn off the heat. Baking soda will also work.
  • Do not move a burning pan, which can spread the fire.
  • Do not throw water or use a fire extinguisher on a grease fire, as water will spread the fire and the extinguisher could splash flaming grease.
  • Never leave food, grease or oils cooking on the stove top without supervision.
  • Do not wear loose or long sleeves when cooking, as it can catch fire.
  • Strop, drop and roll if your clothing catches fire, run burns under cool water and call 9-1-1 for help.
  • Keep children and pets three feet away from the stove.
  • Do not store or use flammable objects, such as pot holders, towels, paper or plastic bags, near heating elements.
  • If a fire starts in an oven or microwave, close the door, turn the appliance off and call the fire department.
  • Do not put metal inside a microwave.
  • Unplug appliances such as toasters and coffee makers when you are not using them.
  • Do not store items in an oven.

Chief Mitchell also wishes to remind residents to test and maintain their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly.

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Georgetown Firefighters to Host Annual Santa Tour this Weekend

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GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred A. Mitchell Jr. is pleased to announce that Santa Claus will be visiting every neighborhood in town during the 24th Annual Santa Tour this weekend. 

WHEN:

Sunday, Dec. 8, beginning at 11 a.m. 

WHERE:

The tour will start at the Byfield Town boarder on North Street. To view the tour’s route, see the schedule below.

WHAT:

Georgetown Firefighters are partnering with Santa this weekend to visit the majority of streets in town, during which Claus will collect new, unwrapped toys for children ranging from infants to age 16 from Georgetown residents wishing to donate to those in need.

The Georgetown Fire Department held the first Santa Tour in 1996, and in 2000, the department began collecting toys for Toys for Tots during the tour, which has become a longstanding tradition.

“The Annual Santa Tour is a really special tradition that our department looks forward to each year,” Chief Mitchell said. “Bringing Santa on a tour around town is always a fun way to celebrate the holiday season with the community, as well as a great way to support Toys for Tots and spread joy to children and families in need.”

Anyone who misses the Santa Tour can drop off toys at the Georgetown Police or Fire Stations at 47 Central St. until the end of the day on Friday, Dec. 13.

The department’s goal this year is to collect approximately 3,000 toys for the Toys for Tots program.

Toys for Tots was founded by the U.S. Marine Corps in 1947 to donate toys to kids who are less fortunate during the holiday season.

Below is a schedule (subject to change/delay) for the 2019 Santa Tour:

Please keep in mind that these are approximate times. Please DO NOT call the police or fire departments to find out where Santa is. Listen for the tour, and meet the firefighters and Santa on the edge of the street with your new unwrapped toy donations.

  • 11-11:40 a.m. — North Street to Web Road, North Street to Brownfield Lane, North Street to Wells/Swanton/Derek Circle, North Street to Meadowview Road, Charles Street, Amburg Street, Meadowview Road, Stone Row Lane.
  • 11:40 a.m.-12:45 p.m. — North Street to Thurlow Street, Tiger Row to Thurlow Street, Jewett Street to the Church of Latter Day Saints, Fazio Farm Road, Harris Way, Jewett Street, Jackman Street to Ordway Street, Warren Street to Byfield Parish Church, Jackman Street to Ordway Street, Warren Street to Belleau Woods and Rainbow Ridge Way, Whiffletree Lane, Warren Street to Sage Road, Raymond Court, Pineneedle Lane, Raymond Road, Warren Street to Village Lane, Jewett Street, Forrest Street, Crescent Drive to Warren Street to Jewett Street to Family Housing.
  • 12:45-2:15 p.m. — Jewett Street to Tenney Street, Acorn Way, Hawk Way, Hickory Lane, Tenney Street to Long Hill Road, Birch Tree Drive, Long View Way, Long Hill Road, Norino Way, Access Road to East Main Street, True Lane, East Main Street to Tenney Street, Searle Street, Wilkins Way, Searle Street to Woodland Road, Ledge Drive, Abbey Road, Marlboro Road, White Pine Drive, Lisa Lane, Bussing Way, Vineyard Lane, Grapevine Lane, Searle Street, Fieldstone Lane, Marlboro Road, Tenney Street, Spaulding Road, Tenney Street, East Main Street.
  • 2:45-4 p.m. — East Main Street, Pillsbury Lane, Reynard Lane, Partridge Place, Pillsbury Lane, Ilene Circle, Bernay Way, Pillsbury Lane, East Main Street, Winter Street, Maple Street, Park Street, Pleasant Street, Lincoln Street, North Street, Summer Street, Juniper Lane, Molloy Road, Linden Circle, Larch Road, Parsonage Street to North Street, Pond Street, Mill Street, Emily Lane, Lake Avenue, Prescott Lane, Carriage Lane, Pond Street to Groveland.
  • 4-4:45 p.m. — Thurlow Street, Kenneth Road, North Street, Sawmill Way, Rosemary Lane, Waldingfield Road, North Street to Brookmeadow, Oregon Street, North Street to Pond Street, Prospect Street.
  • 4:45-5:45 p.m. —West Main Street to King Street, Old Jacobs Road, West Main Street to Lakeridge Drive, Trestle Way, Laurel Lane, West Main Street to Spofford Avenue, Chaplin Road, Dodge Avenue, Weston Avenue, West Main Street to Middle Street, Clark Street, School Street, West Main Street to Moulton Street, Railroad Avenue, Monroe Street, Madison Avenue, Nelson Avenue, Andover Street.
  • 6:15-7 p.m. — Andover Street, Cedar Lane, Andover Street to Baldpate Road, Hillside Drive, Little’s Hill Lane, Londonderry Lane, Canterbury Drive, Andover Street to Lakeshore Drive, Taylor Street, Bailey Lane, Mohawk Circle, Lower Bailey Lane, Taylor Street to Beverly Drive, Lakeshore Drive to Bradford Loop, Hamilton Terrace, Andover Street.
  • 7-7:45 p.m. Andover Street to Upper Bailey Lane, Marion’s Way, Andover Street to Davis Lane, Andover Street to Pine Plain Road, West Street, Andover Street to Spofford Street, Hardy Terrace, Andover Street.
  • 7:45-8:45 p.m. Andover Street to Baldpate Road, Chaplin Hills Road, Blueberry Lane, Baldpate Road to Nelson Street, Central Street, Lantern Lane, Corinthian Way, Central Street to King George Drive, Central Street to Pingree Farm Road, East Street, Central Street to Library Street, East Main Street to Elm Street, Central Street.

Note: The Santa Tour will not be visiting the following streets: Bayberry Lane, Boardman Street, Brook Street, Deer Run Lane, Dummer Avenue, Flint Road, Hart Circle, High Street, Lynn Circle, Maureen Lane, Molloy Road Extension, Noyes Road, Oak Terrace, Old Jacobs Road beyond Gloria Road, Parish Road, Penn Brook Avenue, Phillips Avenue, Pillsbury Street, Pine Grove Avenue, Richardson Lane, Rock Pond Avenue, Robert Drive. 

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Georgetown Fire Department Reminds Residents to Clear Fire Hydrants of Snow

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GEORGETOWN —Following the season’s first significant snowfall, Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department are reminding residents to clear snow away from hydrants to ensure firefighters can access them easily in the event of a fire.

“It is imperative that hydrants are cleared of snow, to make sure firefighters aren’t encumbered by digging a hydrant out in the event of a fire,” Chief Mitchell said. “Every second is critical in an emergency situation like a fire, and we want to ensure no time is lost should such a situation arise.”

The Georgetown Fire Department is asking residents to help clear snow from within 3 feet of hydrants to ensure firefighters can efficiently and effectively respond to emergencies.

Firefighters lose valuable time if they are forced to locate and dig out a fire hydrant buried in the snow when they arrive at the scene of a fire. Having a visible and accessible fire hydrant could be the difference in saving a home or a life in the event of a fire.

Chief Mitchell also offers the following safety tips following a winter storm from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency:

  • Check in on family, friends and neighbors living alone, especially the elderly, those with medical conditions and anyone who might need help.
  • When shoveling, take frequent breaks to prevent overexertion.
  • Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by clearing exhaust vents from direct vent gas furnace systems.
  • Test and maintain carbon monoxide detectors.
  • To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, also clear snow from the areas around vehicle exhaust pipes before starting the vehicle.
  • Avoid roof collapses by checking your roof and clearing snow that may have accumulated.
  • While driving, watch out for children who may be playing in or near the street. Parents are encouraged to remind children to avoid playing in the street and be careful while playing outdoors.

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Georgetown Fire Department Offers Evacuation Plan Safety Tips for National Fire Prevention Week

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GEORGETOWN — With National Fire Prevention Week kicking off this weekend, Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department are encouraging residents to create and practice an evacuation plan.

National Fire Prevention Week, organized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) begins this year on Sunday, Oct. 6 and ends on Saturday, Oct. 12. The annual campaign seeks to educate and provide the public with valuable safety recommendations and steps they can take to prevent possible fires and respond properly in the event of a fire.

The slogan of the 2019 National Fire Prevention Week is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” in an effort to remind people of the critical importance of creating and practicing an escape plan should a fire start.

According to the NFPA, a person may only have a two-minute window to escape from a fire after a smoke alarm is activated.

“This week is a great reminder that everyone needs to plan and prepare for the event of a fire,” Chief Mitchell said. “Creating an escape plan, sharing it and practicing those steps with everyone in your household will save time when it matters the most.”

The Georgetown Fire Department wishes to share the following safety tips from the NFPA:

  • Create a home escape plan, and make a map. Share that plan will all members of your household.
  • Designate a minimum of two ways to get out of each room, if possible.
  • Make sure all doors and windows to the outdoors are easy to open.
  • Designate an outside meeting place a safe distance away from the home where everyone in your household should meet in the event of a fire.
  • Practice a fire drill at home with your entire household, once at night and once during the day time, twice a year.
  • Make sure everyone in your household practices using different routes to exit your home.
  • Teach children how they can escape, should they need to get out of the home on their own.
  • In the event of a fire and while practicing fire drills, close doors behind you as you leave.
  • If the smoke alarm sounds, exit the building and do not go back inside.
  • If you are evacuating and there is smoke, get low and proceed beneath the smoke.
  • Call the fire department once you are outside the building.

For additional fire prevention safety tips, click here.

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*Media Advisory/Calendar Listing* Georgetown Fire Department Announces Annual Open House and 9/11 Remembrance Service

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GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred Mitchell reports that the public is invited to attend the Georgetown Fire Department’s Open House, which will lead into the annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony this September.

WHEN:

Wednesday, Sept. 11

  • Open House begins at 4 p.m.
  • 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony begins at 6:45 p.m.

WHERE:

Georgetown Fire Department Headquarters, 47 Central St.

WHAT:

The Georgetown Fire Department is inviting the public to attend two events next month. The department’s annual Open House, an event that seeks to foster community relationships with the department, and a separate ceremony recognizing the anniversary of 9/11.

The Open House will include tours of Ambulances 11 and 12, and of Engine 1, Ladder 1 and Engine 4. There will also be an interactive Fire Safety House set up, as well as a station where locals will be taught how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Residents will also have a chance to try on firefighter gear, and participate in a junior firefighter challenge.

Local eateries Justine’s Baked Goods and Clancy’s Fried Dough will also be at the Open House event, and will serve hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers, french fries, fried pickles, fried dough, cake pops and cupcakes.

“The Open House is a great opportunity for the community to come together and get to know their local firefighters,” Chief Mitchell said. “We’re looking forward to an educational afternoon full of opportunities for residents to learn more about firefighting, and then we will hold our annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, a much more somber event where we ask the community to gather to remember those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001.”

The annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony will begin promptly at 6:45 p.m., marking the 18th anniversary observance of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

The ceremony will include a short prayer, words from Chief Mitchell and the ringing of a ceremonial ‘5-5-5’ alarm as is tradition for remembering firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

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Georgetown Fire Department Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips Ahead of Potential Heat Wave

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GEORGETOWN — As this weekend’s projected heat wave approaches, Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department would like to remind residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the heat and humidity.

“We’re encouraging residents to do what they can to avoid strenuous outdoor activities this weekend, especially mid-day and in the early afternoon when the sun is at its strongest,” Chief Mitchell said. “If you have to be outdoors, please take breaks, try to find shade, drink plenty of water and pay attention to your body’s needs.”

The National Weather Service is predicting that temperatures will reach into the high 90s throughout the weekend in Georgetown. Regionally, temperatures are forecast to be in the 90s to lower 100s, and Saturday is expected to be the hottest day.

An Excessive Heat Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for most of Massachusetts on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

To prevent illness and injuries during the heat wave, the Georgetown Fire Department recommends the following safety tips from the American Red Cross, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency and National Safety Council:

Heat Safety Tips:

  • Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach over 100 degrees, even on a 70 degree day.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, like water. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and beverages high in caffeine and sugar.
  • Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
  • If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like libraries, theaters, malls, etc. Those without air conditioning who stay at home are encouraged to stay on the lowest floor, out of the sun, avoid using the stove and oven, and use fans.
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
  • Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, which is typically around 3 p.m.
  • Postpone outdoor games and activities if the temperature is too hot.
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes.
  • Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
  • Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.
  • Learn to recognize and treat heat illnesses.

Tips for Parents: 

  • Limit playtime at peak sun exposure time and familiarize yourself with the signs of heat illnesses.
  • Avoid burns. If playground equipment is hot to the touch, it is too hot for your child’s bare skin.

To learn more about summer safety, visit the American Red Cross or National Safety Council websites.

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Georgetown Fire Department Hires First Full-Time Firefighters

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GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred Mitchell is pleased to share that the Georgetown Fire Department has hired its first crew of full-time firefighters.

Firefighters James Driscoll, of Salisbury, Bret Moyer, of Georgetown, and Brian Belfiore, of Haverhill, began their new roles today, Monday, July 1. 

Firefighter Moyer’s father and grandfather both served on the Georgetown Fire Department.

“This is second nature for me,” Firefighter Moyer said. “I was born and raised in Georgetown. I enjoy helping the community where I live and work.”

Firefighter Moyer has worked part-time at the Georgetown Fire Department since 2005, and Firefighter Belfiore has worked part-time for the department for approximately three years. 

Firefighter Belfiore is also a call firefighter for the Groveland Fire Department, and Firefighter Driscoll is a call firefighter for the Newbury Fire Department and has previously volunteered for the South Hampton, New Hampshire Fire Department. 

“I’ve always wanted to be a firefighter,” Firefighter Driscoll said. “I’m a first generation firefighter, the first in my family. Growing up I loved looking at the trucks and visiting the stations.”

The Georgetown Fire Department also hired Firefighter Jennifer Hicks, of Groveland, who will begin her new post on Sept. 2. Firefighter Hicks started as a call firefighter in Groveland approximately four years ago and began working for the Georgetown Fire Department part-time about two years ago. 

All four full-time firefighters have completed the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Firefighter I and II training, and are certified EMTs. 

The Georgetown Fire Department was given funding by the town to hire the full-time firefighters after Municipal Resources Inc. Consulting Group conducted a study that analyzed the department’s staffing needs. In fall 2018, the consulting firm recommended that the town eventually hire six full-time firefighters to meet its staffing needs. 

“Georgetown is growing, and with a larger population and increased development in town, the Fire Department needs to evolve and grow to meet the community’s needs,” Chief Mitchell said. “We’ve also seen that it’s become increasingly challenging to staff our day shifts with part-time firefighters. It’s a huge commitment, and we need full-time staff to provide a consistent, full response.”

The four firefighters will work the Monday through Friday day-shift, two firefighters from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and two firefighters from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Chief Mitchell hopes to hire two more full-time firefighters for the 2021 fiscal year. The department will continue to be staffed by full-time, part-time and call firefighters.

“This is an exciting time for our department and the town,” Chief Mitchell said. “We’ll be able to provide a more consistent response by having a group of full-time firefighters available during the day to assist our part-time and call firefighters. This is a great model that works well for the needs of the town.”

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Georgetown Fire Department Shares Summer Safety Tips

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GEORGETOWN — With summer on the horizon and spring in full swing, Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department wish to remind residents of important warm weather safety tips.  

“It’s grilling season, and as the weather warms up it’ll soon be pool swimming season too,” Chief Mitchell said. “It’s a fun time of year for us all to get outside, but it’s important that everyone remembers to grill responsibly and practice safe swimming habits.”

According to a report issued by the National Fire Protection Association this April, approximately 10,200 home fires nationwide are started each year by grills.

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services has several tips for grilling safely in the coming weeks and months:

Safety First

  • Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
  • Place grills away from the house, deck railings and out from under eaves of overhanging branches.
  • Grills should only be used on first floor porches, decks, or patios if there is an outdoor stairway to the ground, or the porch is at ground level.
  • Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grilling area. Children should never play near grills or propane cylinders.

Gas Grill Safety

  • Make sure the lid of a gas grill is open when you light it. Propane can build up inside and when ignited, the lid may blow off.
  • Check that all connections are tight before turning on the gas.
  • Clean the grease trap every time you grill.
  • Check the propane tank hose for potential leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle. See if any bubbles appear around the hose. If no bubbles appear, the grill is safe to use.
  • If you smell gas while cooking, turn the grill off and move away from it. Call 911 from a safe location. Do not move the grill.
  • Store propane cylinders upright in an outdoor, shaded area. Cylinders should not be used, stored or transported where they can be exposed to high temperatures.

Charcoal Grill Safety

  • Use only charcoal starter fluid. Never used gasoline or kerosene to start a fire in a grill and never add lighter fluid to burning briquettes or hot coals.
  • Always use charcoal grills in a well-ventilated area. Charcoal briquettes emit carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
  • Properly dispose of grill ashes. Allow the coals to burn out completely and then cool for 48 hours before disposal. If you must dispose of ashes before they are completely cooled, thoroughly soak them in water before putting them in a metal container.

Pool Safety:

According to the American Red Cross, 10 people die daily due to unintentional drowning and approximately 20% of those people are under the age of 14. 

Chief Mitchell is also urging residents to take heed of several pool safety tips this summer.

  • Per Massachusetts regulation, pools should be surrounded by a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool and has an access gate that self-closes, locks and opens outward from the swimming area (even if you don’t have children).
    • Fasten a safety cover over the pool when it is not in use, and remove ladders to further prevent access into the pool. Pool alarms are required whenever a house door leads directly to a pool deck.
    • Never leave children unattended while they are in or near a pool, and make sure they have an adult to accompany them into the water. Young or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a life jacket or inflatable arm flotation devices.
    • Make sure children stay away from pool drains, pipes or any other openings to avoid getting trapped or hurt.
    • Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors and anyone else who is near or uses the pool. Advise children to stay away from pool deep ends, and to always walk, never run near the pool.
    • Keep your pool or hot tub water clean and clear. Maintain proper chemical levels, circulation and filtration. Regularly test and adjust the chemical levels to minimize the risk of earaches, rashes or more serious diseases.
    • Never use the pool if the chemical levels are not correct, or if the water is cloudy and you can’t see the bottom.
    • Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.
    • Watch the local weather reports and do not swim if thunderstorms are in the forecast.
    • Those who are 21 and older should drink responsibly if they choose to consume alcoholic beverages when by the pool. Overindulging increases the risk for injuries or accidental drowning.
    • Avoid using glass containers by the pool. They could break and leave glass around the pool or in the water.
  • For a complete listing of Massachusetts building code regulations regarding swimming pools, click here.

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Georgetown Fire Department Offers Hurricane Safety Tips

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GEORGETOWN — As the Atlantic Hurricane Season begins this month, Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department are recommending a series of precautions for residents to read and understand in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season began on Saturday, June 1, and will end on November 30. Historically, hurricanes and tropical storms in August and September have had the greatest impact on New England communities. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting a near normal hurricane season this year, which would result in between nine and 15 named storms. Between two and four of those storms are predicted to be major hurricanes. 

“There are a lot of factors that go into preparing for a hurricane, and now is a great time for residents to plan and familiarize themselves with safety tips,” Chief Mitchell said. “It’s essential to create a plan that meets the needs of everyone in your family, from grandparents, to toddlers, to your pets and for everyone to practice that plan.”

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has several safety tips for residents in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm in our area:

  • Stay informed by signing up for emergency alerts.
  • Develop a family emergency plan by establishing meeting locations, creating an emergency contact plan, planning how to evacuate and learning how to shelter in place. Practice your plan with your entire family, and make sure the plan accounts for individuals who have access needs, seniors, children and pets.
  • Acquaint yourself with the emergency plans at places where your family spends considerable time, such as your workplace or your children’s school.
  • Those receiving medical treatment or home health services can work with a medical provider to learn how to maintain care in the event of a hurricane that requires evacuation.
  • Create an emergency kit that includes items such as bottled water, a three day supply of non-perishable and ready-to-eat foods, can opener, radio, flashlight or lantern, batteries, cell phone and charger, wrench, pliers, prescription medications, personal hygiene items, change of clothe and shoes, important documents and identification materials, money, first aid kit, emergency whistle, waterproof matches/lighter and area maps. Individuals with young children should pack necessities such as diapers, wipes, formula and baby food. Those with pets should pack a collar, leash, harness, crate, food, bowls, current photo, license and medical information.
  • Follow instructions from public safety officials.
  • Maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and check their batteries.
  • Contemplate purchasing a generator. If you do, be sure to familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions to use it safely. NEVER run a generator indoors, in a garage or with the exhaust facing the home or home air intakes.
  • Take photos or videos of your possessions to create a record for insurance purposes.
  • Prepare your home if a storm is coming by securing outdoor objects, clearing rain gutters, covering windows with shutters or plywood (do not use tape), turn off propane tanks that aren’t being used, elevate items in your basement in case of flooding, check your sump pump, unplug sensitive electronic equipment, clear nearby catch basins, park vehicles in areas that are unlikely to flood, and remove any boats from the water.
  • Do not go out during a hurricane or tropical storm, if possible.

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Department Headquarters

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47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

January 2020
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CHIEF FRED A. MITCHELL, JR.

Georgetown Fire Department.
Always on duty.