Town of Simsbury Remains in State of Emergency

With power lines and trees still down throughout the town, Simsbury residents are strongly urged to use the utmost caution around downed and sagging power lines. 

“There is no guarantee that lines which have been on the ground since Sunday are dead and residents should assume that all wires are energized,” said Tom Roy, director of public works for the town. “We will be working with CL&P crews throughout the week to open roads, remove debris and position the town for restoration of power.”

Public work crews are also driving around town documenting every area that still needs to be addressed.

Debris Removal — According to Roy, the town is prepared to remove residential debris from the storm, including brush and logs up to 12 inches in diameter no more than 6 feet long, provided it is brought to curbside no later than November 6, 2011. 

“We’ve arranged for extended hours at the transfer station as well,” said Roy.  “Residents will also have the option of bringing debris to the transfer station between the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every day until November 16.”

The transfer station will be open starting Wednesday.

Emergency Shelter — With the timing of power restoration uncertain and evening temperatures near or below freezing, Simsbury residents have been making use of the emergency shelter at Simsbury High School. 

“Over 1,100 signed in to the shelter today to get warm, shower and enjoy a hot meal,” said First Selectman Mary Glassman. “We’re facing a severe shortage of cots — if you plan to come to the shelter, please make sure to bring your medications, blankets towels and anything else you will need to remain comfortable.”

On Tuesday at the shelter a yoga class was added. There are still free massages available, showers, movies and food.

Town of Simsbury Schools Closed for Remainder of Week — Uncertainty concerning the timing of power restoration also lead to the closing of Simsbury’s schools for the balance of the week. Information concerning the date of reopening will be forthcoming.

POWER OUTAGE SAFETY TIPS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

• Don’t Improvise with Home Heating. Do not use charcoal grills, kerosene heaters or other “camp ground” equipment indoors. Use of outdoor heating and cooking equipment indoors presents a serious risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Be Careful with Fireplace Ashes and Candles. Improperly disposed fireplace ashes caused a fire in Simsbury earlier today. Candles accidentally left burning also pose a threat — be sure to monitor your use of candles.
• Dispose of Food Gone Bad. If you have been without power since Saturday, the food in your refrigerator has probably gone bad. Trash pick-up is continuing but will be one day late. Beginning Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., you can also bring spoiled food to a dumpster which will be located at the transfer station on Wolcott Road.

Be sure if you are using a generator to be aware and monitoring for carbon monoxide exposure. There have been incidents reported.

Last night there was a fire at a residence, the cause is not known. No one was home at the time — they were at the shelter, but the family dog did not make it.