HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. — As winter weather approaches, base officials have outlined procedures to ensure the safety of personnel and the continuity of base operations here.
According to Col. Jorge Jimenez, installation commander, the goal is to provide timely and accurate information to the workforce when weather conditions impact the region.
“The safety of our workforce and their families is our top priority,” said Jimenez. “By making informed decisions and using the resources available, we can ensure that everyone stays safe while continuing our mission.”
In the event of inclement weather for the Hanscom AFB area, the base has established multiple communication channels to announce base closures, delayed openings, or staggered releases, helping to keep Team Hanscom informed and prepared.
Base notifications and information channels
Base status updates, including closures and delays, will be provided early in the morning of a weather event to give personnel ample time to plan.
Randy Robertson, 66th Air Base Group deputy director, emphasized the importance of early communication in winter weather scenarios.
“We understand the challenges winter weather can bring, and we strive to provide timely updates through multiple platforms so that everyone knows what to expect,” he said.
Personnel are encouraged to check the following resources for real-time updates on base status:
In addition to these primary resources, the installation’s communication strategy includes outreach to local schools to inform parents of any impacts on school openings or closures.
Updates on school status will be made in collaboration with local districts.
School notifications and family planning
Families with school-aged children are reminded to stay updated on local school closures.
Base officials work closely with area schools to provide timely updates on delays or closures that may affect students that live on Hanscom AFB.
“We understand that parents need to make childcare arrangements in the event of school closures,” said Laurel Wironen, Hanscom AFB school liaison officer. “We encourage families to have a plan in place and to monitor both base communications and school notifications.”
Staggered release and telework
When winter weather impacts operations, staggered release procedures may be implemented to ease congestion and reduce risks for those traveling.
“Releasing personnel in stages allows us to prevent everyone from being on the road at the same time, which increases safety for everyone,” Robertson said.
Personnel will be notified of any staggered releases via the usual communication channels.
In cases where severe weather is forecasted, telework is encouraged for those who are able, and base leadership urges personnel to use common sense.
“Telework is a great option when the weather makes commuting unsafe,” said Jimenez. “We want our workforce to know that if conditions are hazardous, they should take the necessary precautions and work remotely whenever possible.”
Obtaining medical care when winter weather hits
Patients scheduled for medical appointments at the 66th Medical Squadron should check the Hanscom AFB weather information hotline at 781-225-COLD (2653) for delays or closures.
If the base has a delayed opening or is closed, appointments will either be completed virtually or canceled and rescheduled through the clinic’s call center at 781-225-6789.
Emergency care does not require prior authorization, and urgent care is available for non-emergencies. Active duty members need prior authorization before going to urgent care.
Active duty members and dependents can also contact the Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-TRICARE (874-2273) for guidance.
More information can be found at the clinic’s webpage.
Safety measures and preparedness
Safety officials recommend keeping vehicles well-maintained with sufficient fuel, keeping emergency supplies such as blankets, food, and water in vehicles, and driving carefully during icy or snowy conditions.
According to base officials, children’s safety is a top priority during snow removal operations on base.
“Parents are reminded to keep children away from plows and other snow removal equipment while they are in use,” said Senior Airman Cordell Reed, 66 ABG Safety. “Snow plows and other machines have limited visibility, and it can be difficult for operators to see children who may be playing near or on snowbanks or the side of the road.”
Base personnel are also encouraged to monitor weather forecasts and adjust their plans accordingly.
Snow removal operations
The 66th Civil Engineering Division plays a crucial role in keeping Hanscom AFB operational during snowstorms. The team is responsible for clearing roads, parking lots, and sidewalks to ensure safe access for those required to report to work.
Snow removal priorities are determined based on mission needs and safety concerns, with primary roads and mission-critical areas cleared first, followed by secondary roads and parking lots.
“Our snow removal teams work around the clock to keep the base safe and operational,” said Robertson. “They have a plan in place for every storm, and we ask everyone to be patient as they work to clear the base efficiently.”
Jimenez urges Team Hanscom to exercise common sense during winter weather, prioritizing safety over all else.
“If conditions are unsafe where you are commuting from, don’t take unnecessary risks to get to work just because the weather at Hanscom Air Force Base allows the installation to be open,” he said. “Work with your supervisor to use telework if available, delay your commute if necessary, and follow the guidance provided through our communication channels. Your safety is critical, and we want to make sure that everyone gets home safely.”