Past Risk Alerts

Risk Alert 2020-16, Winter Storm Watch

Winter Storm Watch

December 14, 2020

A Hazardous Weather Outlook is in effect from Tuesday, December 15, through Sunday, December 20. The potential exists for a winter storm late Wednesday into Thursday, which could bring heavy snow to all of Massachusetts east of Berkshire, strong winds along the coast, and coastal flooding and beach erosion to eastern Massachusetts. Winds up to 60 mph may accompany the snow.Our office will continue to monitor the storm’s track and provide an update when more information is forthcoming.

 

Precautions to Take Now:

Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines and power outages are expected in areas with heavier snowfall. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

 

At this time, we urge you to make the following preliminary preparations:

  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people/property.
  • Some trees in our area may be more susceptible to wind damage due to stress from drought conditions. Immediately inspect trees and bushes. Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Closely monitor NOAA weather radio or other local news outlets for official storm information and changes to the forecast.
  • Be prepared for potential power outages as a result of downed power lines caused by storm activity. Have an emergency supply kit on hand, including water, flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and non-perishable food.
  • Check to see if sump pumps are working, and advise custodians to check all drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.

Roofs

If not cleared off, snow accumulations will add weight and stress to structures and contribute to leaky roofs once the snow begins to thaw. In many cases, roof ice dams can form, causing water build-up leading to interior damage. To minimize the risk of over-stressing a building roof due to accumulated or drifting snow, please take into consideration the following tips:

  • If roof snow can be removed from the ground with the use of a snow rake (available at most hardware stores), do so. Use caution, as metal snow rakes conduct electricity if they come into contact with a power line.
    Try to avoid working from ladders, as ladder rungs tend to ice up. Snow and ice collect on boot soles and metal ladders.
  • Remove snow in layers uniformly across the roof to prevent unbalanced loads that might cause collapse. Avoid making snow piles on the roof during the removal process.
  • Large icicles can form on roof overhangs, but do not necessarily mean ice damming is occurring. Icicles overhanging doorways and walkways can be dangerous and should be carefully removed.
  • Use care with snow removal equipment (shovels, ice spaces, snow blowers) to prevent roof cover damage. It is not necessary to clean completely down to the roof surface as long as melting snow and water can freely flow to the drains.
  • Because snow is heavy and roofs and other surfaces may be slippery, all of the above-mentioned actions should only be performed by able-bodied adults. Protective headgear and eye protection is recommended.

Keep Informed

  • All locations should have a battery-powered radio on hand.Please monitor weather reports.

Reporting a Claim

If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the storm, report the claim immediately. Contact Alicia Gray at 781-664-3990, Alicia_gray@rcab.org.For a list of service vendors, go to: https://rcabrisk.org/vendor.

Risk Alert 2020-15, Notices of Unemployment Claims May Be Fraudulent

Notice of Unemployment Claims May be Fraudulent

December 14, 2020
According to the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) website, criminal enterprises using stolen personal information from earlier national data breaches have been attempting to file fraudulent unemployment claims through the DUA system. This is part of a national unemployment fraud scheme.
  • If you receive a form from the Massachusetts DUA stating that one of your employees (terminated or active) has applied for unemployment, immediately contact the employee and ask if they filed an unemployment claim.
  • If the employee filed an unemployment claim and if the dates on the form are correct, you may answer only the questions for which you know the answer, then sign, date, and write your phone number on the original form and mail it to DUA. Keep a copy for your files. Please contact Joyce Contrucci at jcontrucci@rcab.org for guidance if you have questions.
  • If the employee did not file an unemployment claim, advise them to go to the DUA website and report the unemployment benefits fraud. The employee should also be encouraged to take the steps listed on the website, which include filing a police report with their local police department and asking fora copy of that report. Please follow the DUA instructions at the end of this alert for guidance on how to complete the original form. You may also contact Joyce Contrucci at jcontrucci@rcab.org for guidance. Employees may go to the following DUA website for information and to report fraud: www.mass.gov/unemployment-fraud.
  • Employers can report fraud by emailing: UIFraud@detma.org with FRAUDULENT CLAIM in the subject line.
    • Include in your email:
      • The employee’s name and last 4 digits of Social Security number (e.g., xxx-xx-1234)
      • Whether the employee remains actively employed or not
      • Whether the employee has already reported the fraud to DUA
      • Your contact information (name and title, parish or school, address, email, phone)
If you have questions, please email Joyce Contrucci at jcontrucci@rcab.org
DUA Instructions to Employers: Proper Handling for Reporting Fraudulent or Improper Unemployment Claims
In recent months, the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance has been receiving notifications from employers protesting claims in bulk and reporting likely fraudulent or improper unemployment claims. These notifications have been coming in various forms, ranging from letters being written to the Department, employers writing “Fraud” across Department letters and forms and sending them back, and other mechanisms that are inhibiting or preventing the Department from handling these issues in a timely and accurate manner. Following is guidance on how each of these situations where there is a questionable claim against an employer should be handled:
If an employer has received a “Confirmation of Employment” letter:
  • The most effective and efficient way is to complete the form online.
  • When filling out the form (online or in paper), please fill in the form as intended and do not write across the form and do not write notes outside of the specific questions, checkboxes, or other data entry areas.
  • If the person still works for you, please select “Still Employed-Part-Time.” You make this selection even if the person is a full-time employee.
  • If the person never worked for you, please select “The claimant did not work for me during the time period stated.”
  • The employer should encourage the employee to file a fraud report and follow the guidance at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/report-unemployment-benefits-fraud.
If an employer has received a “Lack of Work” letter for an employee who either has never worked for your company or is employed by your company without any break in service for the past year:
  • The most effective and efficient way is to complete the form online.
  • When filling out the form (online or in paper),please fill in the form as intended and do not write across the form and do not write notes outside of the specific questions, checkboxes, or other data entry areas.
  • If the person still works for you, please select “Still Employed-Part-Time.”You make this selection even if the person is a full-time employee.
  • If the person never worked for you, please select “The claimant did not work for me during the time period stated.”
  • The employer should encourage the employee to file a fraud report and follow the guidance at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/report-unemployment-benefits-fraud.
If the employer or employee is responding to a “Fact Finding Letter”
  • Complete the form as provided. Do not write across the form; simply fill in the form as requested.
  • Employers should inform employees who had a claim filed without their permission to go to https://www.mass.gov/info-details/report-unemployment-benefits-fraud to report the fraudulent claim and find information and advice on other actions they should take to protect their identity.
If an employer has received a “Monetary Determination” that they are in disagreement with:
The employer should encourage the employee to file a fraud report and follow the guidance at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/report-unemployment-benefits-fraud.
If an employer is protesting a claim as the result of a “Benefit Charge Statement” they are in disagreement with:
  • Protests can only be filed online and not by any other mechanism.
  • On the online form, enter the comment “Fraudulent Claim” and then provide information indicating why you believe the claim is fraudulent (e.g.,the claimant still works for our company and when we spoke to the claimant, he said he never filed a claim).
  • In a case where both employer and employee acknowledged that the claim was not filed by the employee, the employer should fill in the protest form using their UI Online account. The employee should be directed to file a fraud report and follow the guidance at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/report-unemployment-benefits-fraud.

Risk Alert 2020-14, High Wind Warning

High Wind Warning

November 30, 2020

The National Weather Service issued a High Wind Warning for portions of central, eastern, northeastern and western Massachusetts. West winds 15 to 30mph with gusts between 40 and 50 mph are expected.

This warning is in effect from 3pm this afternoon until 1am on Tuesday, December 1.

Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

At this time, we urge you to make the following preliminary preparations:

Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people/property.

Some trees in our area may be more susceptible to wind damage due to stress from drought conditions. Immediately inspect trees and bushes. Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.

Closely monitor NOAA weather radio or other local news outlets for official storm information and changes to the forecast.

Be prepared for potential power outages as a result of downed power lines caused by storm activity. Have an emergency supply kit on hand, including water, flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and non-perishable food.

Rainstorms are expected. Check to see if sump pumps are working, and advise custodians to check all drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.

Keep Informed

  • All locations should have a battery-powered radio on hand. Please monitor weather reports.

Reporting a Claim

If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the storm, report the claim immediately. Contact Alicia Gray at 781-664-3990, Alicia_gray@rcab.org.

Risk Alert 2020-13, Wind Advisory/Hazardous Weather Outlook

Wind Advisory/Hazardous Weather Outlook

November 2, 2020

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory/Hazardous Weather Outlook in effect until 6:00 pm this evening. Expect west winds 20 –30 mph with gusts 45 to 50 mph. A few gusts to 55 mph are possible over higher terrain. This is in effect for all of southern New England, except the Islands, through 6:00 pm this evening.

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

At this time, we urge you to make the following preliminary preparations:

  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people/property.
  • Some trees in our area may be more susceptible to wind damage due to stress from drought conditions. Immediately inspect trees and bushes. Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Closely monitor NOAA weather radio or other local news outlets for official storm information and changes to the forecast.
  • Be prepared for potential power outages as a result of downed power lines caused by storm activity. Have an emergency supply kit on hand, including water, flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and non-perishable food.

Keep Informed

  • All locations should have a battery-powered radio on hand.Please monitor weather reports.

Reporting a Claim

If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the storm, report the claim immediately. Contact Alicia Gray at 781-664-3990, Alicia_gray@rcab.org or Madeline Ostdick at 617-866-9942.

Risk Alert 2020-12, Scam Alert

Scam Alert

October 14, 2020

We have had multiple reports of fraudulent bank wire transfer requests resulting in the loss of a significant amount of money. These latest incidents have had a more refined spoofing approach, making it more difficult for the recipient to identify its legitimacy. We have recently received information that would suggest these attempts may become more prevalent in, and focused on, diocesan operations and parishes.

Be on your guard and always confirm any money transfer requests with a telephone call. Fraudulent wire transfer requests are part of sophisticated email spoofing campaigns. Email spoofing is the process of forging an email to make it look like it comes a person or institution that is familiar to you.

Be Aware

A spoofed email looks harmless enough because it appears to come from an address you readily recognize. The contents of the email may contain anything from simple spam content, links to websites, or a message requesting assistance. In the first case, the content will betray itself and the email can just be deleted. In the second case you should be cautious about clicking on any links as this could be the entryway for malware. It is best to use your browser to go to the website in question and to navigate to the appropriate page, assuming all appears legitimate.

Recently we have had reports from a number of parishes where emails addressed to a business manager, finance and operations manager or parish staff member request a wire transfer. These emails appear to come from the pastor. The recipient responds and with some back and forth the recipient is ready to make the transfer. STOP –CALL –CONFIRM. Knowledge and judicious judgement are the best defense.

Simple Steps

  • A transfer of funds should never be performed solely on the basis of an email exchange, obtain verbal confirmation.
  • Do not share bank account numbers or other banking information over email.
  • If the tone of the email is urgent, this should be a signal for additional caution.
  • Do not publish staff emails on the parish or school website –use a ‘Contact Us’ form instead.

If you have any questions, please contact our office at jfm@rcab.org.

Risk Alert 2020-11, High Wind Warning, Hazardous Weather

High Wind Warning, Hazardous Weather

October 7, 2020

The National Weather Service issued a High Wind Warning for portions of central, eastern, northeastern and western Massachusetts. West winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts between 50 and 60 mph are expected.

This warning is in effect from 2pm this afternoon until 2am on Thursday, October 8.

Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

At this time, we urge you to make the following preliminary preparations:

  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people/property.
  • Some trees in our area may be more susceptible to wind damage due to stress from drought conditions. Immediately inspect trees and bushes. Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage
  • Closely monitor NOAA weather radio or other local news outlets for official storm information and changes to the forecast.
  • Be prepared for potential power outages as a result of downed power lines caused by storm activity. Have an emergency supply kit on hand, including water, flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and non-perishable food.
  • Rainstorms are expected. Check to see if sump pumps are working, and advise custodians to check all drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.

Keep informed

  • All locations should have a battery-powered radio on hand.Please monitor weather reports.

Property Damage

If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the storm, report the claim immediately. Contact Alicia Gray at 781-664-3990, Alicia_gray@rcab.org.

Risk Alert 2020-10, Tornado Warning

Tornado Warning

August 4, 2020

The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Warning for parts of western Massachusetts Tuesday morning. The warning includes northwestern Hampshire County and northwestern Franklin County and is in effect until 9:30 a.m.

At 8:45 a.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Middlefield, or 13 miles east of Pittsfield, moving north at 45 mph.

The warning comes as Tropical Storm Isaias moves into the northeast after making landfall overnight in North Carolina. Tornado watches had been issued for parts of Connecticut earlier Tuesday morning.

The NWS warns residents that flying debris can be dangerous to those caught without shelter, and mobile homes could be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows and vehicles could occur, and tree damage is likely.

Residents in the storms’ path are advised to go to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. If you are outdoors or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

Property Damage

If you experience property damage, contact our Claims office immediately at 781-664-3990 or 617-746-5743.

Risk Alert 2020-09, Tropical Storm Warning - Isaias

Tropical Storm Warning – Isaias

August 3, 2020

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Southern New England – tropical storm-force winds are expected within the next 36 hours.

Tropical Storm Isaias is expected to quickly track through southeast New York and western New England Tuesday evening before heading into northern New England. Most of the storm`s impacts will occur during about a 6-hour period early Tuesday night.

Strong southerly winds gusting to 40 to 60 mph may be capable of downing some trees and power lines. There is also the possibility of an isolated tornado. Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected, with the higher totals closer to the Berkshires, where minor urban or poor drainage flooding may occur.

Minor coastal flooding may impact south coastal Rhode Island and Massachusetts during high tide Tuesday evening. Inundation would be less than one foot above ground level if it were to occur.

Rough surf and an increased risk of dangerous rip currents should affect south coastal beaches Tuesday and at least into Wednesday.

At this time, we urge you to make the following preliminary preparations:

  • Efforts to protect property should now be underway. Prepare for limited wind damage. Act now to complete preparations before the wind becomes hazardous.
  • Closely monitor NOAA weather radio or other local news outlets for official storm information and changes to the forecast. See the “Keep Informed” section below for more information.
  • Some trees in our area may be more susceptible to wind damage due to stress from drought conditions. The strongest wind gusts should occur tonight into Monday afternoon. Immediately inspect trees and bushes. Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Be prepared for potential power outages as a result of downed power lines caused by storm activity. Have an emergency supply kit on hand, including water, flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and non-perishable food.
  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people/property.
  • Have window shutters/plywood covers accessible in the event windows need to be protected.
  • Although heavy flooding is not expected, check to see if sump pumps are working, and advise custodians to check all drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.

Keep Informed

  • All locations should have a battery-powered radio on hand. Please monitor weather reports.

Reporting a Claim

If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the storm, report the claim immediately. Contact Alicia Gray at 781-664-3990.

Risk Alert 2020-08, Tornado Watch

Tornado Watch

August 2, 2020

The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Watch for northern Connecticut and western Massachusetts (Berkshire and Franklin counties) and a Tornado Warning for Hampshire and Hampden counties. The tornado watch is in effect until 10:00 pm tonight. A few tornadoes are possible, with scattered wind gusts of up to 70 mph.

Tornado watches are issued for broad areas where conditions exist for the development of twisters, while tornado warnings are issued for highly localized areas where a tornado is imminent or has been detected on radar.

Precautions

  • Have custodians check drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.
  • Check to see if sump pumps are working.
  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people or property.
  • Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Shutter windows. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
  • Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
  • Use a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.

If outdoors, avoid the following:

  • Natural lightning rods, such as tall, isolated trees in an open area.
  • Hilltops, open fields, the beach, or a boat on the water.
  • Isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
  • Anything metal, such as lawn mowers, motorcycles, golf clubs and bicycles.
  • After the storm, be sure to inspect basements and roofs for leaks and flooding, especially in buildings that are unoccupied. In addition, inspect the grounds for weak or damaged tree limbs and have these removed immediately.

Property Damage

If you experience property damage, contact our Claims office immediately at 781-664-3990 or 617-746-5743.

Risk Alert 2020-07, Hazardous Weather, Flash Floods

Hazardous Weather – Flash Floods

July 10, 2020

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood watch for portions of northern Connecticut and western Massachusetts today through Saturday morning. Widespread rainfall amounts of one to two inches are expected across the region this afternoon and especially tonight. Localized higher amounts may occur, resulting in flash flooding. Significant flooding of urban areas and small streams is possible.

We urge you to take the following precautions:

  • Have custodians check drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.
  • Check to see if sump pumps are working, especially in buildings that have been unoccupied due to COVID-19.
  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people or property.
  • Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Use a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.

If outdoors, avoid the following:

  • Natural lightning rods, such as tall, isolated trees in an open area.
  • Hilltops, open fields, the beach, or a boat on the water.
  • Isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
  • Anything metal, such as lawn mowers, motorcycles, golf clubs and bicycles.

After the storm, be sure to inspect basements and roofs for leaks and flooding. In addition, inspect the grounds for weak or damaged tree limbs and have these removed immediately.

Property Damage

Property damage caused by lightning, including damage caused to electrical appliances and wiring, is covered under the property and insurance program. If you experienced a lightning strike that caused damage, contact the Claims Manager immediately at 617-746-5743 or 617-746-5739.

Risk Alert 2020-06, Hand Sanitizer Manufactured in Mexio

Hand Sanitizer Manufactured in Mexico

June 24, 2020

FDA advises consumers not to use any hand sanitizer manufactured by Eskbiochem SA de CV in Mexico, due to the potential presence of methanol (wood alcohol), a substance that can be toxic when absorbed through the skin or ingested.

Please note: The 55 gallon drums of hand sanitizer distributed to each region are manufactured by BETCO Manufacturing in Ohio. For more information, go to: https://www.betco.com/. In addition, the disinfectant Bioesque is manufactured in the U.S.

FDA has identified the following products manufactured by Eskbiochem:

  • All-Clean Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-002-01)
  • Esk Biochem Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-007-01)
  • CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-008-04)
  • Lavar 70 Gel Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-006-01)
  • The Good Gel Antibacterial Gel Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-010-10)
  • CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-005-03)
  • CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-009-01)
  • CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-003-01)
  • Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-001-01)

FDA tested samples of Lavar Gel and CleanCare No Germ. Lavar Gel contains 81 percent (v/v) methanol and no ethyl alcohol, and CleanCare No Germ contains 28 percent (v/v) methanol. Methanol is not an acceptable ingredient for hand sanitizers and should not be used due to its toxic effects.

Consumers who have been exposed to hand sanitizer containing methanol should seek immediate treatment, which is critical for potential reversal of toxic effects of methanol poisoning. Substantial methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death. Although all persons using these products on their hands are at risk, young children who accidently ingest these products and adolescents and adults who drink these products as an alcohol (ethanol) substitute, are most at risk for methanol poisoning.

On June 17, 2020, FDA contacted Eskbiochem to recommend the company remove its hand sanitizer products from the market due to the risks associated with methanol poisoning. To date, the company has not taken action to remove these potentially dangerous products from the market. Therefore, FDA recommends consumers stop using these hand sanitizers and dispose of them immediately in appropriate hazardous waste containers. Do not flush or pour these products down the drain.

Risk Alert 2020-05, Heavy Rain, Coastal Flooding, Gale Watch

Heavy Rain, Coastal Flooding, Gale Watch

May 15, 2020

The National Weather service warns of scattered thunderstorms between 3:00 and 4:00 pm this afternoon in western Massachusetts, spreading eastward into eastern Massachusetts through about 7:00 pm until about 10:00 pm. These storms have the potential to produce locally damaging winds, large hail, and torrential rain, with a low risk of a tornado. The greatest potential for severe conditions will be in northern and western Massachusetts.

The Office of Risk Management urges you to take the following precautions, especially for buildings that have remained vacant these past weeks due to COVID-19 closures:

  • Have custodians check drains, grates and basins to ensure they are free of leaves and debris.
  • Check to see if sump pumps are working, especially in buildings that have been unoccupied due to COVID-19.
  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage to people or property.
  • Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
  • Use a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.

Property Damage

Property damage caused by lightning, including damage caused to electrical appliances and wiring, is covered under the property and insurance program. If you experienced a lightning strike that caused damage, contact the Claims Manager immediately at 617-746-5743 or 617-746-5739.

Risk Alert 2020-04, Unoccupied Buildings

Unoccupied Buildings

March 20, 2020

With the closure of schools and parishes as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic, please continue to be mindful of the safety of your building and grounds. Unoccupied buildings are often the target of theft and vandalism. Please be vigilant and ask your custodian to do the following:

  • Make sure there are no accessible ladders, tools or other objects that could assist a burglar with a break-in.
  • Make sure all valuables are stored away from access points. Criminals are frequently enticed to break in if there are expensive items, such as electronic equipment, visible from a window.
  • Secure all PCs, laptops or any other device or files that contain confidential information.
  • Look for easy access points into any buildings, specifically focusing on doors, windows and locks. If any of these are faulty, they should be replaced immediately.
  • Keep bushes and shrubs near your building trimmed. This will eliminate hiding places in the shadows. This will also allow your building to be more visible from the street, which will make noticing suspicious activity easier.
  • Remove tree branches below 7’ from trees adjacent to the building and keep shrubbery trimmed below four feet.
  • Adequate lighting on your premises is essential and will prevent criminals from lingering too close to your building. Make sure light fixtures are operational.
  • Is exterior storage of trash/rubbish at least 25 feet from building?
  • Ask local police to increase patrols of your area.

Custodians should conduct daily walk-throughs of every building, as well as the grounds. Look for the following:

  • Signs of forced entry.
  • Open windows or doors left ajar.
  • Interior water leaks.
  • Items that are not properly stored.
  • Valuable items left out in plain sight.

 Prevent Frozen Pipes

Winter is still here! This Saturday night, temperatures are expected to be in the 20-degree range. Please continue to maintain the heat in unoccupied buildings. Maintain a temperature of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if there is a cold spell, please be certain to maintain a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent frozen pipes.

COVID-19 Hotline and Email

We have a dedicated hotline available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm: 617-746-5750.

You can also email us at corona@rcab.org.

Risk Alert 2020-03, Ransomware

Cyber Alert – Ransomware

March 16, 2020

On the afternoon of Friday, March 13, the RCAB Network was infected by a crypto virus that impacted a significant number of department files. Many files were encrypted and rendered unusable.  Original versions of these files are now being restored from backup.

The malware was introduced onto the RCAB network by one or more users browsing Coronavirus mapping / tracking websites.   If the progress of this infection was not stopped then all files would have been encrypted and the Archdiocese would have been held to ransom.

To help prevent a similar malware infection on your parish or school network please take the following precautions:

Only access well known and reliable sources for information and maps of Covid-19.  These include:

https://www.bostoncatholic.org/coronavirus

https://www.cdc.gov/

https://www.mass.gov/resource/information-on-the-outbreak-of-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19

http://www.childrenshospital.org/

Do not simply google and click links for this type of information. Hackers are using Covid-19 as a cover for placing malware on computers. There are reported malware infected versions of the John Hopkins University Covid-19 mapping website. Infected sites aim to steal account login information or to install ransomware (crypto viruses).

Do not click on any links in emails you may receive from unknown sources with information about the coronavirus. Do not open attachments including pdf files. If the email appears to come from a government agency, health authority or some other group or organization, do not click on any included links or open attachments.

Ensure any accounts you access using an office computer are protected with a complex password and always use two factor authentication where this is an option. This includes all web-based business-related accounts as well as parish/school managed Facebook and other social media accounts.

Pay extra attention to activity on all banking accounts. Variants of the Covid-19 malware include those specifically designed to steal login credentials and banking information. Report any strange or unexpected activity.

Be sure to maintain full backups of all your computer files.  Test your backups by performing a file recovery.  In the event your files are corrupted or encrypted by ransomware a backup will be your ONLY option to recover your documents and files.

Ensure that all parish and school computers have a reliable business-class anti-malware solution, e.g., Malwarebytes.

Ensure all parish and school computers are suitably updated and patched with operating system and software updates.

Windows 7 computers should not be used.  Upgrade or replace them immediately.

Please follow the same recommendations when using your home computers.

This most recent round of Covid-19 related malware is new and is aimed at taking advantage of an already difficult situation. Anti-malware is not yet available to prevent infection; therefore, it is up to users to be extremely careful. Each person using a computer bares a responsibility to be cautious.

Please forward this advisory to all parish and school staff as appropriate.

Risk Alert 2020-02, Coronavirus

Coronavirus

February 28, 2020

The Archdiocese of Boston, through the Office of Risk Management, is monitoring the situation related to the coronavirus outbreak and updating relevant planning guides should the situation warrant in the Commonwealth.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) update

As of February 26, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the virus is NOT currently spreading in the US, although they indicate that we need to be prepared as it is likely to become widespread. As for the Commonwealth, the first case in Massachusetts was confirmed in Boston on January 31, but the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) reports that, at this time, the risk to the public remains low.

Please keep in mind, however, that this is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and CDC will provide updated information as it becomes available, in addition to updated guidance. Keeping up with information issued from the CDC, the MDPH and Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH) is critical. The MDPH launched a website with up to date information for the public. CDC also maintains a website with up to date info on coronavirus.  BCH’s information is available here.

Archdiocesan webpage

The Archdiocese is posting information on the homepage (www.bostoncatholic.org) including links to various websites and public information. An email for parishes, schools and ministries to seek additional information or to make inquiries for further guidance will be made available on the homepage in the coming days.

Liturgical Directives

These directives are effective Saturday, February 29, 2020 until determined otherwise by the Archbishop. The Office of Worship, in consultation with local health authorities and the Archdiocesan Office of Risk Management, continues to encourage the clergy and faithful to observe necessary standard precautions to protect the health of others during this time. The best way to prevent the spread of contagious disease is to practice good hygiene.

In addition to practicing good hygiene, the Archbishop directs the following for the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy and for flu prevention:

The Holy Water fonts are to be drained and cleaned with a disinfecting soap on a regular basis. Please note that old Holy Water should be disposed of in the sacrarium.

The distribution of the Precious Blood for the faithful is suspended, save for those who must receive from the cup due to severe cases of celiac disease. The faith of the Church teaches that Christ, whole and entire, is received even under only one species.

The exchange of the sign of peace is to be offered without any physical contact. If the priest celebrant chooses to extend the invitation for the sign of peace, the faithful, instead of a handshake, may bow to the persons nearby.

Further questions

Further questions related to Liturgical Directives should be forwarded to Thomas K. Lyman in the Office of Divine Worship. Tom can be reached at 617.746.5759 or via email at TLyman@rcab.org.

Additional information and guidance for schools and travel to and from the Commonwealth to impacted areas will be available on the webpage and weekly mailings.

If you have any immediate questions or concerns about the items in this advisory, please contact Joseph McEnness at 617-746-5740; email: jfm@rcab.org.

Risk Alert 2020-01, Extreme Cold - Frozen Pipe Alert

Extreme Cold – Frozen Pipe Alert

February 14, 2020

Extreme cold temperatures in the low teens to single digits are expected overnight. Because this is a three-day weekend for many schools and parish offices, please be sure vacant buildings maintain a temperature of 68° F all weekend long. This may temporarily increase your heating costs, but it’s a small price to pay to avoid more costly damage and inconvenience caused by frozen pipes.

There is a significant risk of frozen and burst pipes, which can result in millions of dollars in property damage. In addition to the recommendation above, please take measures to prevent frozen pipes:

Maintenance personnel should check facilities, ESPECIALLY UNOCCUPIED BUILDINGS, in the morning and evening each day.

If you lose heat and are unable to restore heat before the low temperatures begin, shut off the water supply and drain pipes. This will prevent water from freezing and bursting the pipes. If you are unable to drain the pipes, open the taps a little to allow water to trickle out. If you chose this option, please monitor the taps on a regular basis.

Please be vigilant! Previous cold snaps resulted in over $8 million in property damage from frozen pipes alone. Frozen pipes can be prevented!

Heating Safety
When heating your facility, rectory or home, do it safely. For heating safety tips, go to: https://www.mass.gov/winter-home-heating-safety

Property Damage
If you experience property damage, immediately call the Office of Risk Management at 617-746-5743. For a list of service vendors, go to: http://rcabrisk.org/vendors

 

RCAB Contact List: http://rcabrisk.org/contact