HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- In New England, winter weather can be unpredictable, with snow, ice and wind causing conditions to deteriorate quickly.
The 66th Air Base Group Safety Office offers guidance and resources to help plan for inclement weather, ensuring everyone’s safety.
“Prepare in advance for snowy conditions and ensure your vehicle is equipped with necessary items in case of a break down, including non-perishable food items, a blanket, warm clothes, an ice scraper and an emergency car kit,” said Senior Airman Cordell Reed, 66 ABG Safety specialist.
The safety office also recommends staying informed with local weather reports and utilizing available notification options for base personnel.
Base officials use various channels to keep personnel informed and minimize the impacts to the mission during adverse weather.
For the most up-to-date inclement weather information, personnel can contact the COLD Line at 781-225-2653.
Additionally, according to base officials, employees should sign up for AtHoc notifications, accessible through chosen contact numbers or email addresses.
Alternative options to receive notifications include, the Hanscom AFB Facebook page, the Hanscom AFB webpage, and the Hanscom AF Connect app, which are updated during inclement weather remotely.
The Defense Commissary Agency and Army and Air Force Exchange Services facilities typically align with base status during winter storms.
Officials encourage personnel to contact the facility directly when weather impacts the region.
Information on the Hanscom Primary and Middle Schools will be provided directly from the Lincoln Public School system.
The 66th Civil Engineer Division manages snow and ice removal from base streets, sidewalks and parking areas, while Hunt Military Communities handles snow removal in family housing.
Inclement weather procedures for the installation include delayed reporting, delayed opening, early or staggered release, or a base closure. For detailed information on each status, visit the inclement weather fact sheet.
The 66th Air Base Group policy, aligned with Massachusetts General Law, mandates motorists clear all snow, ice or other obstructions from vehicle windows, hoods, roofs, trunks headlights, taillights and license plates to ensure visibility and safe traffic flow.
“Prior to entering the installation, clear off your car completely, ensure clear windows and plan ahead for safety,” said Reed.
Hanscom AFB personnel can find more winter season-specific safety information on the safety team’s CAC-enabled SharePoint site at https://usaf.dps.mil/teams/12410/SitePages/Home.aspx or contact the safety office at 781-225-5584.