Town Administrator Bill Keegan met with local officials Thursday afternoon to discuss plans and strategies for the town during the winter storm.

"During that time heavy amounts of snow and possible power outages are expected.  The Dedham Emergency Management Personnel will be working around the clock to address community needs," Keegan said in a statement. "We ask for your patience and cooperation as our crews work to clear streets, sidewalks and parking lots and respond to emergency calls for service."

Keegan asked residents to call NSTAR directly if there is a power outage. And to call the Dedham Dispatch Center if there are any trees blocking the road or "resting on power lines."

The town will not open a shelter at this time.

"The Town will make provisions for a temporary shelter, if one is needed," Keegan said. "Additional information concerning the shelter will be on our web site if the decision is made to open the shelter."

A snow emergency and parking ban was also put into effect starting today at noon.

"We ask that homes who do not have driveway space that those vehicles be parked on the even side of the road or, preferably if possible, off the road completely," Keegan said.