01/25/2026
Public Service Announcement:
With the current cold snap as well as the expected snowfall, here are a few safety tips:
1. Check your Carbon Monoxide alarms to ensure they are operational AND in date. Both Carbon Monoxide and smoke Alarms expire. There is a date listed on the back label.
2. In the event of losing power and using a generator, ensure your generator is used only outside (not in a garage or covered porch) at least 5 feet from any openings with exhaust pointed away from your house.
3. Ensure your exhaust vents for your furnace and even your clothes dryer (especially in gas dryers) are clear of snow and ice. High efficiency units use side wall exhaust systems, which often can be low to the ground and easily blocked by a large snow fall. The high efficiency units also can ice over in the extreme cold. Check the exhaust fo ice build up.
4. Shovel out the closest fire hydrant to your house. This will help us in the event of a fire.
5. Only go out during the storm if you need to. Road conditions, even with tremendous DPW in the Town of Colonie, will be difficult due to the expected rate of accumulation.
6. If using alternative heat devices such as fireplaces, auxiliary heaters (space heaters), etc., remember to keep items clear from the flame / heating elements. Space heaters are historically known to be causes of fires.
Do not use propane or kerosene heaters inside without proper ventilation. These produce Carbon Monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless gas.
