The Newtown Square Fire Company has noticed an unexpected problem that came with the record-setting snowfalls of February.  In what may sounded like a bit of humor, Chief Doug Simpson volunteered, “Far too many of our residents have lost their identity.”

 

Chief Simpson when on to explain this unusual statement. He cited that the large amount of snowfall has created a problem along many township roadways that have post-mounted, rural-type mailboxes.  This snow, along with the additional roadside snow added with the natural plowing practices has covered two of the traditional address locations.

 

An unsafe, yet common practice that uses metal numbers located on the supporting posts provides no number reference is visible when the post is covered by snow. “With the loss of this type of identity, along with the loss of other neighboring address numbers because of this snow, homes with this type of number identification are really difficult to locate. For some period of time during any emergency response, they are really ‘lost,’ “ added Chief Simpson.

 

Other address problems that have been a long-standing concern for emergency responders is a general, lack of efficient numbering on mailboxes and homes in non-rural areas of Newtown Township.  The Township some time ago established standards for identification.  Numbers are to be a minimum of 4-inches high and 2-1/2 –inches wide. To add one more bit of assistance to police, fire, and EMS responders, these numbers are most noticeable when they are reflective.

 

Newtown Square’s fire chief has also requested that all building mounted addresses be located so they can be easily seen from the street or highway.   Trees, bushes, and other obstacles often hide building numbers. 

 

Chief Simpson has also stressed that emergency responders do not always approach a location from the same direction as postal vehicles.  He acknowledged that far too many people place their addresses on only one side of the post-mounted mailboxes.  For prompt responses, these numbers must be placed on both sides.

 

Calling 9 1 1 is the second step when there is an emergency. The first step is making sure your location can be found day and night, as well as in all kids of weather.  “Proper number is that first step,” added Chief Simpson.