Winter Weather Reminders

DEPT. of EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
PRESS RELEASE

With a strong chance of snow falling on the islands starting on Saturday (just an inch or so, with a bit more on hilltops), and the possibility of a more major snow event next week, it’s worth reminding islanders of some cold weather common sense should our mild winter take a turn for the worse.

When there’s ice or snow on the roadways:

• Drivers should respect the hazardous conditions and slow down or better yet, stay off the road (which also makes it easier for road crews). Don’t be over confident with your 4WD- a surprising number of SUVs end up off of island roads each snowstorm. County and Town crews will sand and plow public roads, prioritizing their efforts based on the snow routes, and will work tirelessly to try to keep roads passable for critical needs, but in nearly all storms or freezes, roads will still be treacherous- plan accordingly.
• If you live on a private road, or have a business or facility that will need plowing, make those arrangements with a private contractor now and don’t wait until the onset of a snowstorm to try to find someone.
• Be self sufficient. Have enough food and other supplies on hand so that you don’t need to run into town.
• Save 911 for true emergencies. Report power outages direct to OPALCO at 376-3599. Emergency responders, as always, will make every effort to take care of business, no matter the weather. That said, islanders need to know that in heavy snow there might be places they can’t get to, or things they can’t do safely. Islanders need to use common sense and caution, and embrace an attitude of self-sufficiency. Call 911 if you need help, but don’t forget to take care of yourself, too.

Unless power is out, the Department of Emergency Management will work to post regular updates of road conditions online at www.facebook.com/sanjuandem or via Twitter at www.twitter.com/sjcdem

Find links to the National Weather Service and other forecasts by going to www.sanjuandem.net/weather.