Winter Storm Hercules is finally making its away out of New England and as Bostonians hunker down under piles of blankets and servings of hot toddies, it’s important to prepare for when we have to venture outside.

Sure, we offered up some preparation tips for prior to when Hercules struck, but even the meteorologists didn’t predict upwards of two feet of snow in some parts of Massachusetts and the Greater Boston Area. That, coupled with near-record freezing temperatures makes for some serious post-storm work.

Out friends over at the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security have compiled a list of tips and tricks for what do to after the first nor’easter of the year to keep your living space and vehicle in good condition, make sure your neighbors are safe, not to shovel snow extraneously, and how to prevent frostbite.

  • Do not become a ‘spectator’. Continue to stay off streets and roads to allow plowing and clean-up operations to proceed smoothly.
  • Be careful when shoveling snow.  Over-exertion can bring on a heart attack – a major cause of death in the winter.
  • Clear exhaust vents from Direct Vent Gas Furnace Systems to avoid Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning
  • Help dig out fire hydrants and storm drains in your neighborhood.
  • Protect yourself by dressing for the season, wearing several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing, rather than one layer of heavy clothing.
  • Be aware of children playing in the streets, particularly climbing on or running out from behind large snowdrifts.
  • Be extra cautious if you go outside to inspect for damage after a storm.  Downed or hanging electrical wires can be hidden by snowdrifts, trees or debris, and could be live.

Heed to this advice and you’re sure to have a painless post-Hercules experience. If nothing else, try your best to be neighborly and help out those living nearby, in your building, or especially elderly people who should’t be out their hucking snow.

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