Email Archives

Subject: BCA Block Captains, Trees, Storm Information
Date Sent: March 6, 2013

Hello. I am writing to follow up on several topics.

Block Captains

BCA has an active block captain program, which is now part of our Neighborhood Security Committee. Our block captains serve a valuable function for their block by (1) knowing the folks on the block, (2) collecting an accurate email and phone for list for neighbors on the block, and (3) forwarding relevant information via email or telephone. These functions are important at times when we experience tough weather events or on occasions when there are incidents of neighborhood crime. We need some additional help. If you live on one of the following streets, please contact John Hannula, Chair of our Neighborhood Security Committee at: John Hannula

Blacklock
Carmichael
Haddington
Helmsdale
Hidden Creek
Loch Lomond
Selkirk
Wilson 6900

Dues

BCA dues for 2013 were due on January 1. You can pay your dues ($30 or more) by mailing your check to Bonnie Garrett, BCA Treasurer, 6604 Broxburn Drive, Bethesda, MD 20817 on the BCA website via PayPal.

Tree Legislation

The County has been considering legislation, Bill 35-12, that requires development of an overall planting plan to identify all appropriate tree-planting opportunities throughout the county to mitigate loss of canopy. The urban canopy bill is designed to discourage unnecessary demolition of mature, healthy shade trees. It sets requirements for fees to be applied when tree canopy is lost. The website below provides further information: http://www.change.org/petitions/trees-matter-in-montgomery-sign-up-to-save-the-trees-in-our-county

Storm Information

Check with neighbors who may require special assistance to see if they need help in stocking up on supplies or medications, and call them during the storm.

To check the status of snow removal operations, call 3-1-1 or check the County's "snow map".

You can report outages to Pepco at 1-877-737-2662. Or, if your smart phone is charged up, you can report the outage using the Pepco app.

Residents are urged to help clear the way for snow plow operators. Park vehicles in driveways or off the street whenever possible.

For downed trees on public property, residents should call 3-1-1. To report trees that have fallen on utility lines, contact local utility companies:

BG&E 877-778-2222
First Energy/Potomac Edison 1-800-255-3443 (Allegheny)
PEPCO 1-877-737-2662

Report "hot" or sparking wires, especially those across roadways, by calling 9-1-1.

Residents concerned about the safety and well-being of children, elderly individuals or adults with disabilities should call the County's Crisis Center at 240-777-4000.

When shoveling, "Adopt a Fire Hydrant" by making sure that the nearest hydrant is shoveled out so it is visible from the street.

Exercise caution when shoveling snow. Individuals with heart disease or high blood pressure should follow their doctor's advice about shoveling snow or performing other hard work in the cold. Avoid overexertion.

When preparing to drive, be sure to thoroughly clear the snow from the entire car to ensure visibility and prevent snow from blowing onto surrounding cars. Montgomery County officials urge residents to use extreme caution when driving and walking following a snowstorm. Drivers should watch for pedestrians in the roadway, particularly at night when visibility is low.

Stay warm and safe. Best,
Ted Garrett, President
Bannockburn Citizens Association