News Briefs

Transit app

helps out

With extremely cold temperatures hitting the region over the past several days, the Town of Winthrop would like to remind residents of resources they can use to help improve their commute when taking public transportation.

The Transit app, which commuters can use in 125 cities worldwide, partners with transit agencies and shared mobility providers to help residents get to their destinations.

In Boston, the app uses the T’s real-time data and a trip planner to show the best routes to take. Users can view departure times for any nearby transit on or offline, and even set up notifications for stops along a route. In addition to subway schedules, Transit also allows you to compare ride-hailing and bike-share options like Uber, Carshare and Bikeshare all on one screen.

“Those who have to take public transportation are more often exposed to the elements, which can be especially frustrating and even dangerous this time of year,” said Police Chief Terence Delehanty. “We want to share resources like the Transit app, which can be a huge convenience in this freezing cold weather.”

The Transit app is free to download. While Transit is the only app officially endorsed and promoted by the MBTA, other apps like Moovit, Swiftly and Moovel are also available to residents as resources to track and compare public transportation.

 

 

COMMUNITY AWARDS DINNER

The Winthrop Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Awards Dinner will be held Saturday, January 27, 2018 at the Cottage Park Yacht Club.

A reception will start at 7 p.m. followed by the Awards Dinner at 8 p.m.

Reservations are required and due by January 12.

Call the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce at 617-846-9898 or come by the office at 207 Hagman Road to purchase your tickets.

 

Frigid Temperatures Require Extra Pet Precautions

With temperatures plummeting to Arctic levels and blizzard conditions on the way, the Animal Rescue League of Boston wants to remind pet owners that frigid conditions can endanger the well-being, safety, and the lives of the pets we love.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Prepare your dog for the elements. If you have a longer coat dog, let it grow out for the winter; it will provide warmth and protection from the cold. For shorter coat dogs, sweaters, coats and booties can go a long way to protect your pooch.
2. Wipe off your dog’s paws and stomach. Sidewalks are treated with a number of chemicals. These chemicals can irritate your dog’s paws, and can be poisonous if ingested. When coming in from the cold, clean and dry your dog’s stomach to keep them healthy!
3. Keep outdoor trips quick. Bathroom breaks or walks, keep it short and sweet and keep your pets indoors as much as possible.
4. Never leave your dog alone in a cold car. Many Massachusetts residents are aware that it’s illegal to keep an animal in a hot car, under the same law it’s ALSO illegal to keep your animal in a cold car (Ma. Ch. 140, Section 174F.  (a) A person shall not confine an animal in a motor vehicle in a manner that could reasonably be expected to threaten the health of the animal due to exposure to extreme heat or cold). When going out, leave your animals at home.
5. Pay attention to your pet’s grooming and health. An animal with a matted coat cannot keep him or herself warm! Long-haired pets especially during heavy periods of shedding, need extra help maintaining a healthy coat. Senior pets also suffer from increased arthritis pain in the cold, so check with your veterinarian on how to keep your pet comfortable.
6. Check under the hood. Cats love to warm up underneath the hood of a car, as the residual heat from the engine burns off. Unfortunately, this method of warming up can have dangerous consequences, such as severe burns and other grave injuries. Always pound on the hood of your vehicle and do a quick visual check before starting the engine.

Bottom line, if it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s also too cold for your pet to be outside.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is an unwavering champion for animals in need, committed to keeping them safe and healthy in habitats and homes. Founded in 1899, ARL provides high quality veterinary care, adoption, and rescue services; while also confronting the root causes of animal cruelty and neglect through innovative community programs, police investigations, and public advocacy. In 2016, ARL served more than 17,800 animals throughout Massachusetts. ARL is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. We receive no government funding and rely solely on the generosity of individuals to support programs and services that help animals in need.

For more information please visit us online at www.arlboston.org; and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, andInstagram.