By David Li, bostonese.com
Boston – In the afternoon of Sunday, October 28, Governor Patrick held a news conference wearing a Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) uniform. He urged Massachusetts workers, including non-essential state employees to stay home on Monday. Hurricane Sandy has killed 65 people in the Caribbean islands, and is threatening lives and properties along US Eastern seaboard from Virginia to Maine.
The Governor has directed that non-emergency employees working in Executive Branch agencies should not report to their workplaces on Monday, October 29, 2012.
On Saturday, October 27, Governor Patrick signed a State of Emergency Declaration for the entire state of Massachusetts. This will allow the sate to use all of its resources, and deploy them in a swift and effective manner. The Massachusetts National Guard has been activated.
MEMA is the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and disasters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MEMA provides leadership to: develop plans for effective response to all hazards, disasters or threats; train emergency personnel to protect the public; provide information to the citizenry; and assist individuals, families, businesses and communities to mitigate against, prepare for, and respond to and recover from emergencies, both natural and man made. For additional information about MEMA go to www.mass.gov/mema
Local cities and towns has also taken steps to ensure that the community is prepared for the impending storm. Malden Public Schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, October 29. All afterschool programs are canceled as well. Mayor Christenson has decided that as a safety precaution, all non-essential City employees should remain at home tomorrow. All City buildings, including the Senior Center, the Library, the Schools and City Hall will be closed on Monday.
In Lexington town website, the following announcement was posted Sunday afternoon.
Hurricane Sandy is expected to bring sustained high winds for
approximately 12 to 18 hours starting Monday mid morning.
We are anticipating extensive tree damage and widespread power outages.
->Do not approach downed wires. Consider all wires as an electrical hazard.
->Please shelter in place. Before the storm, secure or put away outdoor items.
->On Monday, October 29 the following public services will be suspended:
- All public schools and School administrative offices will be closed.
- Town offices, the Library, and the Senior Center will be closed.
- There will be no Lexpress bus service.
- Trash and recycle pickup is suspended. Do not place any items curbside.
->You should anticipate losing phone service. If you wish to receive Code Red
messages consider registering your cell phone with the CodeRed link on the
Police Department webpage.
->Starting at 8 a.m. Monday, direct storm-related non-emergence calls to
781-274-8381. As always, dial 911 for emergency.
->MEMA Offers Tips as Hurricane Sandy approaches.