General FAQs

Yes, piling snow on fire hydrants is prohibited; it's a penalty.

Piling Snow

No person other than an employee in the service of the commonwealth or any political subdivision thereof or in the service of an independent contractor acting for the commonwealth or any such subdivision shall pile, push or plow snow or ice on or against any fire hydrant or other similar device used for fire protection which is located in any public or private way so as to conceal such hydrant or device or cover any outlet thereof. Whoever violates this section shall be punished by a fine or not more than one hundred dollars.

Barbecue Safety

• Never use gasoline on any grill.
• Supervise children whenever any grill is in use.
• Use of all barbecue grills should be away from the house in the backyard.

Gas Grills

• All LP gas cylinders with a capacity between 4 to 40 pounds. must be equipped with an overfill protection device.
• Keep all LP-gas outside, three feet away from building openings such as doors, windows, dryer vents and air intake vents.
• LP-gas grills are not permitted inside or on balconies above the first floor of any building where people live.
• LP-gas is heavier than air and sinks. A leaky grill could pose a hazard to people below. Possible ignition sources include smoking materials, air conditioners, compressors, pilot lights and cars.
• Make sure all connections are tight and secure.
• We recommend LP-gas canisters be ten feet away from the house, if possible, especially when in use.

Charcoal Grills

Use only charcoal lighter fluid to start charcoal grills. Once the coals have been lighted, never add more lighter fluid to the fire. Flames may travel up the stream of lighter fluid resulting in serious burns.

Home Winter Safety

To keep your home safer this winter you should take the following precautions:

• Candles should be on a flat surface in a noncombustible holder of glass, metal or ceramic. Candles should never be left unattended. Many major fires in our area have been started by unattended candles.
• Carbon Monoxide detectors should be installed near heating units and on the level of the bedrooms.
• Chimneys should be cleaned, especially if you burn wood in a wood stove or fireplace. Chimneys should also have a screened rain cap to prevent rain, snow and animals from entering the flue.
• Cleaning leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts will prevent ice buildups during freezing weather.
• Have your furnace / boiler cleaned and serviced by a licensed oil burner or gas technician.
• If your oil or gas furnace / boiler has a direct vent, make regular checks during storms to make sure the vent is free from accumulated snow or debris.
• Keep space heaters away from upholstery, drapes, newspapers, magazines and other combustibles.
• Never ever use a gas oven to heat a room.