Chief Timothy Clancy and the Whitman Fire Department would like to share safety tips with residents ahead of the upcoming storm.

According to the National Weather Service and Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), a potentially strong storm is expected to arrive in our area late Thursday, and remain until early Saturday. Possible impacts include damaging winds up to 65 mph and heavy rainfall. Power outages are also possible as a result of high winds.

MEMA is recommending that residents secure outdoor holiday decorations and test basement sump pumps if you live in a low-lying area. Residents are also encouraged to keep a close eye on the forecast and adjust holiday travel plans accordingly.

Power outage safety tips:

-Fully charge your cellphone, laptop, and other electronic devices.

-Ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and have fresh batteries.

-Know how to safely use a generator.

-Take recommended safety precautions when using space heaters, a fireplace, or a woodstove to heat your home. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.

-If possible, use flashlights instead of candles. If you must use candles, place them

-in safe holders away from anything that could catch fire. Never leave a burning candle unattended.

-Call 911 to report emergencies including downed power lines or if you are dependent on equipment that requires electricity and need medical assistance.

-Do not call 911 to report an outage or to ask about power restoration.

-Call your utility company to report power outages and get restoration information.

National Grid 1-800-465-1212

Eversource (formerly NSTAR) 1-800-592-2000

Eversource (formerly WMECO) 877-659-6326

Unitil (FG&E) 888-301-7700

Customers served by a municipal utility should locate their utility providers’ phone numbers.

See more safety tips here.