Mayor Menino
Issues No Heat Advisory; Encourages Residents to Prepare for Cold
Weather
(Boston, MA, Jan. 2, 2013) Mayor Thomas M. Menino and the
Inspectional Services Department today issued a reminder to Boston
residents to prepare for frigid temperatures by making homes weather
tight, and ensuring heating systems are running properly and
adequately fueled. In the month of December, Inspectional Services
received 129 “no heat” calls.
“As temperatures drop in Boston, we’re encouraging residents,
landlords and property managers to be proactive in servicing their
home plumbing and heating systems,” Mayor Menino said. “We’re also
asking neighbors to look out for one another, and to take
appropriate safety measures to prepare for the cold. Our 24-hour
hotline is always on hand to help with any concerns residents may
have.”
As residents brace for winter weather, Inspectional Services
encourages both property owners and tenants to prepare by doing the
following:
Service Your Plumbing and Heating Systems:
Planned Repairs Are Cheaper Than Emergency Repairs
Make sure your heating systems are up to code and working properly -
minimize the chances of them breaking down
Do not run out of fuel, try to keep no less than a quarter tank of
oil
Keep service plan handy in case of emergency
Property owners should have an emergency list of contractors
(electrician, plumber and general contractor)
Heat Your Home, Not Outdoors:
Keep the Cold Out
Close and secure all storm windows and doors
Install door guards on all exterior doorways
Apply weather stripping to windows and doors
Properly insulate all pipes exposed to cold temperatures
Cover vents
Disconnect water hose and wrap or cover exposed spigot
Caulk or putty windows
Ensure kitchen and bathroom dampers close properly
According to the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, landlords and
property managers must supply functioning heating systems from
September 15 through June 15. During this time the temperature of
units must be maintained at 68 degrees during the day (7 a.m.to 11
p.m.) and 64 degrees in the evening (11:01 p.m. to 6:59 a.m.).
Tenants experiencing problems with heating systems should contact a
landlord or property manager immediately. If they are unresponsive,
tenants should contact the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) at
617-635-5300 to file a complaint. Complaints made outside normal
business hours should be called into the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at
617-635-4500.
In partnership with MassSave, NSTAR and National Grid, Renew Boston
provides no-cost energy assessments and 75% off – up to $2,000 – on
qualified insulation improvements for households in 1-4 unit
buildings. There are no income qualifications and renters and
landlords are encouraged to participate. Those interested in
learning more about the program should call 617-635-SAVE. For more
information
the heating regulations page on City Hall's website.
City emergency management organizations have compiled a list of
personal and home safety tips for cold weather preparation,
available at www.cityofboston.gov/cold. The site also acts as a
central location for residents filing service requests for
cold-weather related issues, including insufficient heat, gas or
electric problems, smoke and carbon monoxide detector inspections,
and reporting oil truck issues.
The Elderly Commission reminds residents to check on their elderly
neighbors. Boston seniors can also take advantage of Senior Shuttle
service for any transportation needs. Additional information is
available by calling the Elderly Commission at 617-635-4366. The
City's Shelter Commission asks that any resident who sees a
potential medical emergency involving a homeless person dial 9-1-1.
