Emergency Preparedness

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)

MEMA ensures the state is prepared to withstand, respond to and recover from all types of emergencies and disasters

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Safety Tips for Specific Threats & Hazards

Contact Numbers

What to do During a Power Outage

Call Hingham Municipal Light Plant (HMLP) at 781-749-0134 to report a power outage. An answering service is available 24/7 to take your call. Please DO NOT call 911 to report a power outage. Only call 911 about electricity if it involves a public health and safety hazard, such as lines down. 

HMLP Outage Map

Department of Public Works and Landfill

The clearing of fallen trees, limbs, snow, water, etc. which obstruct vehicular traffic is the Department of Public Work's top priority. Downed trees on town land will be removed by the town. Disposal of downed trees and other debris on private property is the responsibility of the homeowner and will not be picked up by the town.

Remember that depositing private debris on town land and streets is subject to fines. The landfill is open for operation Thursday through Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The landfill is closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and holidays. During emergencies, landfill hours may be extended.

School Closures

On occasion (and because of volume), it may be difficult to reach certain stations by phone.  Parents and students should, therefore, check with more than one station to determine if school is canceled or delayed.  “No School” announcements will also be posted on the school department’s website www.hinghamschools.org as soon as that is physically possible.  Individuals are asked not to call the schools. The number of lines is limited and staff may not be able to answer before school hours.  Several stations offer phone, text and email notification and weather apps for parents who enroll..

Parents and students are urged not to call the Police Station or the Fire Department for information about the operation of the schools.  These agencies are not the proper sources of information, and numerous phone calls may impede communications over phone lines that are designed for emergencies.

Emergency Checklist

During hurricanes, blizzards, or other disasters, you should be prepared to be self-sustaining for a minimum of 72 hours, according to FEMA. To help keep you as safe as possible, check the following and be prepared.

  • Working flashlight (extra batteries)
  • Portable radio (extra batteries)
  • WATD, 95.9 FM, Marshfield, Massachusetts
  • Charge any batteries you may need
  • 3-day supply of food and water
  • Necessary prescription drugs
  • Car gas tank full
  • Supply of canned foods
  • First aid supplies
  • Fresh water in containers
  • Charge any batteries you may need
  • Propane or charcoal for cooking

Be Prepared for Emergencies | Mass.gov