August 31, 2010

Heat Advisory Issued for Boston

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Public Health,Weather — Joseph Porcelli @ 10:06 am

Mayor Menino Reminds Residents to take Precautions in High Temperatures this Week

City Pools and Cooling Centers Remain Open

With temperatures expected to top 90 degrees over the next several days, Mayor Menino has issued a heat advisory and reminds residents to take precautions to stay safe and healthy during this hot and potentially dangerous weather.  The city’s pools and cooling centers remain open, with indoor pools staying open until 8 p.m. and outdoor pools open until dusk.

“Summer is not over yet,” said Mayor Menino. “With these high temperatures, we must remember to stay cool and hydrated and continue to look out for our vulnerable neighbors.”

Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and injuries, but everyone should remember to limit their activities during very hot weather, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol.  When outdoors, limit strenuous activity wear sunscreen and loose, light-colored clothing, and rest often in cool, shady areas. Additional measures to beat the heat include avoiding cooking, taking cool showers or baths, and staying in air conditioned areas whenever possible.

Heat related illness such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be fatal if untreated and need to be taken seriously, particularly for elderly and younger populations.  Residents should follow heat safety precautions and pay attention to the warning signs such as nausea, dizziness, and headaches.  If symptoms persist, call 9-1-1 immediately. Family, friends and neighbors are also urged to check in frequently with elderly residents who may need assistance during the hot weather.

Mayor Menino also urges residents to utilize the city’s pools and cooling areas which are open across the city.  Residents are reminded that fire hydrants should not be tampered with or opened; doing so may hinder fire prevention capabilities.

For questions about heat-related city services, residents should call the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at 617-635-4500.  Comprehensive heat safety tips and resources are available on the city website atwww.cityofboston.gov/heat.

BCYF Cooling Centers and Pools

All community centers will be open until at least 8 p.m.

Agassiz Community Center                20 Child Street, Jamaica Plain            635-5191

Archdale Community Center              125 Brookway Rd, Roslindale           635-5256

BCNC (Quincy)                                  885 Washington St, Boston                635-5129

Blackstone Community Center           50 West Brookline Street, Boston      635-5162

Charlestown Community Center        255 Medford Street, Charlestown      635-5169

Cleveland Community Center            11 Charles Street, Dorchester             635-5141

Condon Community Center               200 D Street, South Boston                635-5100

Curley Community Center (L St.)      1663 Columbia Road, South Boston 635-5104

Gallivan Community Center               61 Woodruff Way, Mattapan                         635-5252

Golden Age Center                             382 Main Street, Charlestown            635-5175

Grove Hall CC (Burke)                       51 Geneva Ave, Dorchester                635-1484

Harborside Community Center (Umana) 312 Border Street, East Boston    635-5114

Hennigan Community Center             200 Heath Street, Jamaica Plain         635-5198

Holland Community Center               85 Olney Street, Dorchester               635-5144

Hyde Park Community Center           179 River Street, Hyde Park               635-5178

Jackson-Mann Community Center     500 Cambridge St, Allston                 635-5153

Kent Community Center                    50 Bunker Hill St, Charlestown          635-5175

Mildred Avenue Community Center 5 Mildred Ave., Mattapan                  635-1328

Nazarro Community Center                30 North Bennet Street, North End   635-5166

Ohrenberger Comm. Center                175 West Boundary Rd.                     635-5183

Orchard Gardens Community Center 2 Dearborn Street, Roxbury               635-5220

Orient Heights Comm. Center            86 Boardman Street, East Boston      635-5120

Perkins Community Center (Lee)       155 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester          635-5146

Roche Family Comm. Center             1716 Centre Street, West Roxbury     635-5066

Roslindale Community Center           6 Cummins Highway, Roslindale       635-5185

Shelburne Community Center            2730 Washington Street, Roxbury     635-5213

Thomas Johnson Community Center 68 Annunciation Road, Roxbury        635-5213

Tobin Community Center                   1481 Tremont St, Roxbury                 635-5216

Tynan Community Center                  650 East 4th Street, So Boston           635-5110

Vine Street Community Center          339 Dudley Street, Roxbury               635-1285

BCYF Centers with Pools

BCNC (Quincy)                                  885 Washington Street, Boston          635-5129

Blackstone Community Center           50 West Brookline Street, Boston      635-5162

Charlestown Community Center        255 Medford Street, Charlestown      635-5169

Clougherty Pool                                  151 Bunker Hill St, Charlestown        635-5173

Condon Community Center               200 D Street, South Boston                635-5100

* Draper Pool                                      5279 Washington St., West Roxbury             635-5021

* Flaherty Pool                                    160 Florence Street, Roslindale          635-5181

Harborside C.C. (Umana)                   312 Border Street, East Boston          635-5114

Hennigan Community Center             200 Heath Street, Jamaica Plain         635-5198

Holland Community Center               85 Olney Street, Dorchester               635-5144

Leahy-Holloran CC (Murphy)            1 Worrell Street, Dorchester               635-5159

*Madison Park Comm. Center           55 New Dudley Street, Roxbury        635-5209

* Mason Pool                                      176 Norfolk Ave, Roxbury                 635-5241

Mildred Avenue Community Center 5 Mildred Ave., Mattapan                  635-1328

Mirabella Pool                                     475R Commercial St, North End       635-1275

* Paris Street Pool                               113 Paris Street, East Boston                         635-5125

Perkins C.C. (Lee)                              155 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester          635-5146

* Are either pool-only sites or pool sites without air-conditioning.

July 6, 2010

Heat Advisory for Boston

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Public Health,Weather — Tags: , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 8:29 am

With temperatures expected to top 90 degrees today with significant increase in humidity, Mayor Thomas M. Menino has issued a heat advisory and reminds residents to take precautions to stay safe and healthy during this dangerously hot and humid weather.

Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and injuries, but everyone should remember to limit their activities during very hot weather, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol.  When outdoors, limit strenuous activity wear sunscreen and loose, light-colored clothing, and rest often in cool, shady areas. Additional measures to beat the heat include avoiding cooking, taking cool showers or baths, and staying in air conditioned areas whenever possible.

Heat related illness such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be fatal if untreated and need to be taken seriously, particularly for elderly and younger populations.  Residents should follow heat safety precautions and pay attention to the warning signs such as nausea, dizziness, and headaches.  If symptoms persist, call 9-1-1 immediately. Family, friends and neighbors are also urged to check in frequently with elderly residents who may need assistance during the hot weather. Comprehensive heat safety tips are available on the city website at www.cityofboston.gov/heat.

Mayor Menino also urges residents to utilize the city’s pools and cooling centers, which are open across the city.  Residents are reminded that fire hydrants should not be tampered with or opened; doing so may hinder fire prevention capabilities.  A complete list of cooling centers is listed below and on the city website atwww.cityofboston.gov/heat.

For questions about heat-related city services, residents should call the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at 617-635-4500.  Elderly residents are advised to call the Elderly Commission at 617-635-4366 or the Mayor’s 24 – Hour hotline if they experience problems.
BOSTON CENTERS FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES (BCYF)

SUMMER 2010 COOLING CENTERS & POOLS LIST

The following BCYF sites are available, based on required needs, as Cooling Centers and/or Pool Sites when Mayor Menino declares a Heat Emergency or after the City of Boston’s temperatures have reached 90 degrees or higher for three (3) or more consecutive days.

BCYF Cooling Centers

Agassiz Community Center                    20 Child Street, Jamaica Plain                635-5191

Archdale Community Center                  125 Brookway Rd, Roslindale                 635-5256

Blackstone Community Center               50 West Brookline Street, Boston           635-5162

Charlestown Community Center             255 Medford Street, Charlestown           635-5169

Cleveland Community Center                 11 Charles Street, Dorchester                635-5141

Condon Community Center                    200 D Street, South Boston                    635-5100

Curley Community Center (L St.)           1663 Columbia Road, South Boston        635-5104

Curtis Hall Community Center                20 South Street, Jamaica Plain                635-5193

Gallivan Community Center                    61 Woodruff Way, Mattapan                  635-5252

Golden Age Center                                382 Main Street, Charlestown                635-5175

Grove Hall CC (Burke)                          51 Geneva Ave, Dorchester                   635-1484

Harborside Community Center (Umana) 312 Border Street, East Boston              635-5114

Hennigan Community Center                 200 Heath Street, Jamaica Plain             635-5198

Holland Community Center                    85 Olney Street, Dorchester                   635-5144

Hyde Park Community Center               1179 River Street, Hyde Park                 635-5178

Jackson-Mann Community Center          500 Cambridge St, Allston                      635-5153

Kent Community Center                        50 Bunker Hill St, Charlestown               635-5175

Leahy-Holloran Comm Ctr (Murphy)      1 Worrell Street, Dorchester                  635-5150

Mildred Avenue Community Center        5 Mildred Ave., Mattapan                      635-1328

Nazarro Community Center                   30 North Bennet Street, North End         635-5166

Ohrenberger Comm. Center                   175 West Boundary Rd., West Roxbury  635-5183

Orchard Gardens Community Center      2 Dearborn Street, Roxbury                   635-5220

Orient Heights Comm. Center                86 Boardman Street, East Boston           635-5120

Perkins Community Center (Lee)           155 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester              635-5146

BCNC (Quincy)                                    885 Washington St, Boston                     635-5129

Roche Family Comm. Center                 1716 Centre Street, West Roxbury         635-5066

Roslindale Community Center                6 Cummins Highway, Roslindale 635-5185

Shelburne Community Center                 2730 Washington Street, Roxbury           635-5213

Thomas Johnson Community Center       68 Annunciation Road, Roxbury             635-5213

Tobin Community Center                      1481 Tremont St, Roxbury                   635-5216

Tynan Community Center                     650 East 4th Street, So Boston 635-5110

Vine Street Community Center              339 Dudley Street, Roxbury     635-1285

BCYF Centers with Pools

Blackstone Community Center               50 West Brookline Street, Boston           635-5162

Condon Community Center                    200 D Street, South Boston                    635-5100

Curtis Hall Community Center                20 South Street, Jamaica Plain                635-5193

* Draper Pool                                       5279 Washington St., West Roxbury       635-5021

* Flaherty Pool                                      160 Florence Street, Roslindale,              635-5181

Hennigan Community Center                 200 Heath Street, Jamaica Plain             635-5198

Holland Community Center                    85 Olney Street, Dorchester                   635-5144

Leahy-Holloran Comm Ctr (Murphy)      1 Worrell Street, Dorchester                  635-5150

*Madison Park Comm. Center               55 New Dudley Street, Roxbury             635-5209

* Mason Pool                                        176 Norfolk Ave, Roxbury                     635-5241

Mildred Avenue Community Center        5 Mildred Ave., Mattapan                      635-1328

Mirabella Pool                                       475R Commercial St, North End 635-1275

* Paris Street Pool                                113 Paris Street, East Boston                 635-5125

Perkins Community Center                    155 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester              635-5146

Quincy Community Center                     885 Washington Street, Boston               635-5129

May 31, 2010

Why it smells like smoke outside in Boston

Filed under: All Posts,Public Health,Weather — Tags: , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 11:59 am

PORTLAND, Maine—Strong northwest winds are bringing smoke into New England from wildfires that are burning in Canada.

The National Weather Service says smoke from dozens of fires that are burning in southern Quebec had spread south and east across much of Maine and New Hampshire and northeast Vermont on Sunday. Today, the smoke could be smelled and seen all the way to Cape Cod. The smoke had reduced the visibility to about three miles in places, and the smell of smoke was strong across the region.

Read the entire story on Boston.com

March 30, 2010

Urgent Need for Volunteers To Build Sandbags To Prevent Further Flooding

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Weather — Tags: , , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 3:06 pm

From our friends at Boston Cares:

As you may know, Massachusetts has declared a state of emergency from the flooding caused by recent and continuing rain. Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is looking for able-bodied volunteers for immediate assistance to build sandbags in Lexington and possible other locations throughout Massachusetts.

Volunteers are needed immediately, and it is anticipated that the need will continue throughout the day tomorrow. Volunteers are asked to dress in warm work clothes that can get dirty, wear work gloves, and bring any water or snacks that they need to stay warm and hydrated.

If you are interested in volunteering please call Bill Driscoll at 508.820.1403 for further instructions on meeting locations.

Thank you for supporting our communities and neighbors during this time!

-The staff of Boston Cares

March 15, 2010

Highlights flooding concerns as Noon high tide approaches

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Public Safety,Weather — Tags: , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 11:11 am

The Mayor expressed concerns of flooding in all residential areas as high tide approaches at noon today, particularly in parts of Dorchester that have experienced the highest levels of rainfall.

Boston Water and Sewer is monitoring water flow city wide. Storm water run off and catch basins are performing fine, however sewer systems are more concerning as rain water floods the system and backflow is happening in some areas.  Rain totals from 9:00 am on Friday through 10:00 am on Monday provided by the Boston Water and Sewer Commission are as follows:

  • Union Park Pump Station, 120 Malden Street, South End – 10.19 inches
  • Roslindale Branch Library, 4238 Washington Street, Roslindale – 7.81 inches
  • Adams Street Branch Library, 690 Adams Street, Dorchester – 8.68 inches
  • Union Square Fire Station, 460 Cambridge Street, Allston – 8.2 inches
  • Joseph Lee School, 155 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester – 10.72 inches

The massive amounts of rain have caused some issues with our traffic lights at approx. 15 intersections throughout the city.  The city’s traffic center is open and will be responding to any issues that may arise.  Boston Police officers will be assigned to these intersections to ensure safety. Drivers are reminded that if there is a blinking traffic signal you are to obey the light – blinking red, stop and blinking yellow, proceed with caution. There are currently no city roads closed, however, orange cones on some roadways indicate pooling water areas where vehicles should slow down and use caution.

Mayor Menino also put the city’s pothole crews on alert.  With heavy rains followed by the warm temperatures expected later this week, the Mayor’s Pothole Patrol crews will be out in full force to repair all damages to city streets.

The city does have some areas prone to flooding and if residents need any assistance they should call the Mayor’s hotline (617-635-4500) or visit Citizens Connect online at www.cityofboston.gov.  The hotline has increased staff to respond to storm-related matters and will direct callers to appropriate agencies for support if needed.   The hotline has received over 2,000 calls in the last 72 hours, many from residents reporting storm-related problems and from homeowners with flooded basements.  The city is responding to all calls and offering assessments.  Residents are reminded that flooding can cause electrical issues.  The city’s Inspectional Services Department along with Boston Water and Sewer and the Fire Department and Mayor’s Office of Emergency Preparedness are ready to respond if needed.  Boston Water & Sewer Crews are unable to assist with pumping out flooded basements.

February 10, 2010

MAYOR MENINO ANNOUNCES ONE TIME AMNESTY FOR SNOW EMERGENCY PARKING VIOLATIONS ISSUED TODAY DURING THE NO’EASTER

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Weather — Tags: , , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 8:48 pm

Points to Unique Nature of This Changing Storm and Families who may Already be Struggling in this Economy as factors in his Decision.

The City of Boston declared a snow emergency at 8am this morning and it was lifted this afternoon at 6pm.  Mayor Menino today announced that tickets issued for snow emergency violations during that time period will be forgiven.

Snow Emergencies are called to insure that our main roads are clear of vehicles in the event of a major storm to allow our snow removal teams the ability to fully clear the streets.  The decision to implement the a parking ban early in the day is to give residents the opportunity to move vehicles to one of the many discounted off-street garages or lots before they leave for work.  Many of our residents take public transportation to work and therefore calling a snow emergency for later in the day could effect their work day.

We appreciate the cooperation during Snow Emergencies. In the futures residents and others are encouraged to use the City’s “Know Snow” program to be notified when a snow emergency is declared and canceled as well for access to other important storm-related information.  To learn more about “Know Snow,” visit http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/.

February 9, 2010

Boston Public Schools Closed 2/10/2010

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Weather — Tags: , , , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 10:19 pm

Boston Public Schools are cancelled tomorrow, Wednesday, February 10. Anticipated visibility problems and icy conditions Wednesday are likely to make road travel for school buses problematic, although BPS administrative offices are open.

For further information, please contact the City of Boston Storm Center at (617) 635-3050, or see the City of Boston website at www.cityofboston.gov.

BOSTON SNOW EMERGENCY: Parking ban in effect 2/10/2010 beginning 8:00 AM

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Weather — Joseph Porcelli @ 10:01 pm

Mayor Thomas M. Menino today declared that a snow emergency and parking ban will go into effect at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 10, 2010. Mayor Menino would like to remind residents of the following:

  • The City of Boston encourages businesses to ask employees to work from home when possible, take public transportation, and be prepared for a potentially dangerous evening commute. Everyone is encouraged to use public transportation.
  • City of Boston afternoon and evening activities are subject to cancellation.
  • Move cars from main arterials during snow emergencies. A listing of main arterials can be found at www.cityofboston.gov/snow/parking/
  • Do not park cars within 20 feet of an intersection. Parking too close to an intersection can restrict emergency vehicle access.
  • Do not throw snow back into the street. “Throwbacks” force the city to remove snow from the same street twice.
  • Shovel out fire hydrants and storm drains close to your home.
  • Property owners are reminded to shovel snow from sidewalks that abut homes and businesses.
  • Do not double park.
  • Keep wheelchair ramps clear.
  • Lend an extra hand to elderly and neighbors and others in need.

During declared snow emergencies, discounted parking is available at several parking lots and garages to cars that display Boston resident parking stickers. A list of locations is available at www.cityofboston.gov/snow. The city’s Know Snow program will be in effect this afternoon to alert residents of the snow emergency.

The City of Boston Storm Center will open at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, when the snow emergency goes into effect. Residents with storm-related questions or concerns should call the center at 617-635-3050, starting at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday

December 19, 2009

Boston declares Snow Emergency at 10 PM tonight!

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Weather — Tags: , , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 1:13 pm

Mayor Urges Use of Public Transportation; overnight parking ban in effect

Mayor Thomas M. Menino has declared a Snow Emergency for the City of Boston that will go into effect at 10 p.m. tonight in anticipation of the forecasted snow storm expected to begin tonight and continue overnight into late Sunday morning.  The National Weather Service is forecasting a potential of upwards of 15 inches of snow in Boston, with the heaviest concentration falling between midnight and 8 a.m. Sunday. Winds could exceed 30 miles per hour during the highpoint of the storm. Mayor Menino urges everyone to use public transportation when traveling, as a citywide parking ban will be in effect through the duration of the Snow Emergency.

In preparation for potential blizzard-like conditions, the City has over 600 pieces of snow removal equipment at the ready and nearly 25,000 tons of salt at depots across the city.  The City’s emergency homeless shelters will be open throughout the day and evening to insure everyone has a place to stay during the storm.

Mayor Menino reminds residents of the following:

  • During a Snow Emergency, parking is prohibited on all major arteries in Boston.  These streets are posted with “Tow Zone – No Parking During Snow Emergency” signs.
  • A listing of major arteries and alternate parking can be found at http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/parking/
  • On streets other than major arteries, do not park within 20 feet of an intersection or further than one foot from the cur, as this impedes access for both emergency vehicles and snow plows.  On non-emergency streets – streets other than major arteries – there will be odd side parking.
  • Parking space savers must be removed no more than 48 hours after a snow emergency is lifted.  The City’s Department of Public Works will remove space savers left out beyond this period.
  • Do not throw snow back into the street. “Throwbacks” force the city to remove snow from the same street twice.
  • Shovel out fire hydrants close to your home.
  • Property owners are reminded to shovel snow from sidewalks that abut their homes and businesses and any handicapped ramps close to your homes or business.
  • Do not double-park.
  • Please check on elderly neighbors and others in need.

During declared snow emergencies, discounted parking is available at several parking lots and garages to cars that display Boston resident parking stickers.  Residents are encouraged to use the City’s “Know Snow” program to be notified when a snow emergency is declared and canceled as well for access to other important storm-related information.  To learn more about “Know Snow,” visit http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/.

Residents with storm-related questions or concerns should call the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at (617) 635-4500.  Working with the National Weather Service, the City will continue to monitor the storm and alert the public when the Snow Emergency has been lifted.

August 17, 2009

Heat Advisory for Boston MA

Filed under: All Posts,Boston News,Weather — Tags: , , , — Joseph Porcelli @ 2:43 pm

CITY OF BOSTON ∙ MASSACHUSETTS

Office of the Mayor

Thomas M. Menino

For Immediate Release:                                                                            For More Information Contact:

August 17, 2009                                                                                                    Press Office, 617-635-4461

Mayor Menino Reminds Residents to Keep it Cool in Hot Weather

With temperatures expected to top 90 degrees this week, Mayor Thomas M. Menino issued a heat advisory and reminds residents to prepare for the hot weather by taking precautions to stay healthy. It is also a great time for Boston residents to take advantage of some of the cool offerings around the city – take a tour of the Copley library, or head to the Museum of Fine Arts, “Seeing Songs” show. Visit the USS Constitution Museum’s new exhibit, “All Hands on Deck A Sailor’s Life in 1812”or head to the movies, all of these fun activities can be done indoors with air conditioning.

“Everyone should enjoy the weather, but be safe while doing so,” said Mayor Menino. “Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and injuries, but everyone should remember to limit their activities during very hot weather.”

Additional measures to beat the heat include avoiding cooking, taking cool showers or baths, and wearing loose, light-colored clothing.

The city’s pools and community centers are now open for summer activities. Mayor Menino urges residents to utilize these facilities. For additional information, residents can contact the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at 617-635-4500 or www.cityofboston.gov/bcyf. Residents are reminded that fire hydrants should not be tampered with or opened; doing so may hinder fire prevention capabilities.

The Mayor’s Commission on the Affairs of the Elderly has been proactively informing seniors of staying healthy during hot, humid weather through community seminars and contacting homebound seniors. The elderly are advised to call the Elderly Commission at 617-635-4366 or the Mayor’s 24 – Hour hotline at 617-635-4500 if they experience problems and to drink plenty of water and avoid outside activity. Additional information is available by calling the Elderly Commission at 617-635-4366.

The warning signs for heat illness include: dizziness, weakness, fainting and vomiting, stomach cramps or cramping of the legs or arms, and confusion and agitation. If anyone experiences any of the symptoms listed above, they should first stop what they are doing and, if possible, move themselves to a cooler area. If symptoms persist, they should call 9-1-1 immediately. Family, friends and neighbors are also urged to check in frequently with elderly residents who may need assistance during the hot weather.

For questions about heat-related city services, residents should call the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at 617 635-4500.

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