Winchester Winter Storm Update February 9, 2010

In anticipation of the second winter storm approaching in less than a week, the City of Winchester would like to remind citizens to take precautions for the weather, plan with family and neighbors what they would do in an emergency and look at their specific needs. Having enough medication, heating fuel and basic necessities on hand to last several days is of critical importance.

Public Works crews continue to work around-the-clock in 12-hours shifts plowing and treating roadways, and removing snow.

Refuse and recycling collection has been canceled for the rest of the week.  These crews are assisting in snow removal efforts.

The City remains in Snow Plan C.  Snow Plan C carries the following provisions:
- Use caution
- Drive only when necessary with snow tires or chains (recommended)
- Keep sidewalks clear of snow
- Vehicles will be removed from parking lots and streets where snow is to be removed
- Do not park along designated snow emergency routes

Under Snow Plan C it is unlawful for any person to:
- Operate a motor vehicle which is not equipped with effective tire chains or snow treads on any of the streets or alleys within the City
- Park or abandon a vehicle on any snow emergency route
- Obstruct or impede traffic on any snow emergency route when such vehicle is not equipped with effective snow tires or chains

Residents who wish to move their automobiles undercover may utilize the George Washington Autopark no charge.

City police will close parking lots and parking on all City streets where snow is to be removed.

Periodic updates will follow as the storm progresses and while cleanup continues.

Basic Weather Safety Information
Basic weather safety involves staying off the roads, dressing in layers, having emergency supplies ready and avoiding overexertion. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management and City of Winchester hope citizens will take the following precautions:

Driving
- Once freezing rain or snow begins to fall, stay off the roads. Only travel if absolutely necessary, and if you do, wear a seat belt.
- Know road conditions before you leave. Current road conditions are available by calling 5-1-1 or visiting 511Virginia.gov.
- Have emergency supplies in your car. If you become stranded, you will need water, food, blankets, a radio, flashlight and extra batteries. Stay with your car. The Virginia Department of Transportation recommends running the car engine for heat for 10 minutes and then turning off the engine for 20 minutes.

Health Concerns
- Wear loose layers and a hat.
- Avoid overexertion during clean up, no matter your age or physical condition. Shoveling snow or pushing a car can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse.

Emergency Heat
- Generators should always be run outside, in well-ventilated areas. Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy.
- Never use a portable generator in any enclosed or partially enclosed space. Windows and doors do not provide enough ventilation.
- Kerosene and propane heaters can cause fires if left unsupervised. If you use one, use only the recommended fuel. Always refuel outdoors safely away from your home.
- Keep an eye on your heater at all times while it is running. Shut it off before you go to bed or when you leave the house.

Emergency Assistance
Clear snow from around fire hydrants.

If you have a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1.

If you are seeking assistance for an elderly or disabled person during the storm, need information on warming shelters in the area or concerned about an unsheltered individual or family at risk of hypothermia, please dial 2-1-1 or visit 211virginia.org.

When you dial 2-1-1, a trained professional will listen to your situation and suggest sources of help using one of the largest databases of health and human services in your community and statewide. All referrals are confidential, and you can search for these same services on 211virginia.org.

Detailed safety information is available at http://www.ReadyVirginia.gov.

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Posted by admin on Feb 9 2010. Filed under Winchester News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.