SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - A major winter storm is heading our way, bringing heavy snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. But Springfield officials said the biggest danger isn’t the weather, it’s being alone when it hits.

City leaders are asking residents to do something simple but critical: check on older adults, people with disabilities, and anyone who might not be able to prepare on their own. They say by working together, this community can get through this storm safely.

“Prepare your home for at least 72 hours. Have enough food, water, medications and essential supplies for three days,” said Ty Denson, the Emergency Management Director for Springfield.

72 hours. That’s how long Springfield Emergency officials said you should be ready to stay home without help. But what if you can’t get to the store? What if you use a walker and can’t shovel? What if you’re caring for an infant?

“Make sure that you are taking care of yourselves and looking out for your health by having medication on hand. infants. it’s important that parents think about diapers, formulas, those things that infants may need, who may be in the house with you. so think about infants. think about young people and what those needs are,” said Helen Caulton-Harris the Commissioner of Springfield Health and Human Services.

City officials said preparation isn’t just about your own home. It’s about knowing who on your street might need extra help, and checking on them before the storm hits, “now is the time to prepare. So, if there’s stuff that you need to have in your home, whether it’s water, food, flashlights, if you need your medical devices, recharge, everything, now is the time to do that.”

The city is also asked residents to clear fire hydrants near their homes. With up to 20 inches of snow expected, fire officials say a buried hydrant could mean the difference between saving a home — and losing it.

“We’re going to have drifting and blowing winds and their DPW is going to be out plowing. we will not be able to find your fire hydrants if they get plowed in, so please clear them out. if your house catches fire, that’s not the time to start looking for fire hydrants, so make sure your fire hydrants are clear and accessible to us,” said Springfield Fire Commissioner B.J. Calvi.

The fire department is also warning: if you use a generator, keep it away from your home and never in your garage to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Check your heating systems now, especially if you need oil. And for those experiencing homelessness, the city’s cold weather outreach team is working to get people to safety.

The DPW warned residents to follow parking bans in place. They will be towing and ticketing aggressively. The DPW also said it will take them 24 hours after the storm ends to complete cleanup and touch-ups on streets.

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