Community News

Heavy lake effect snow, freezing rain and high winds are forecast for the area this week, with a winter storm warning in effect in Oswego County from 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29 through 7 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3.

Oswego County officials offer residents safety tips to ensure they’re prepared for the storm.

 “A multi-day snowstorm is expected this week, and some areas of the county could potentially receive two feet of snow throughout the next few days,” said Oswego County Emergency Management Office Director Cathleen Palmitesso. “Strong wind gusts are also expected today through the late evening, which may result in power outages. It’s important that residents take precautions to prepare for severe weather conditions.”

The Oswego County Emergency Management Office (EMO) offers these strong wind safety tips:

• Make sure that you and your family have a way to receive alerts during potentially dangerous weather conditions. Sign up for the Oswego County Hyper-Reach Emergency Notification System at https://www.oswegocountyny.gov/departments/public_safety/e-911/hyper-reach_emergency_notification_system.php or call the EMO office at 315-591-9150 for assistance signing up.
• Never touch or approach downed wires. Treat all fallen wires as active and dangerous.
• Secure outdoor items like furniture, trash cans or outdoor decorations to prevent damage or flying debris.
• To prepare for a power outage, be sure to charge your phone or mobile device and portable chargers. Have safe lighting available such as flashlights or glow sticks, and check essentials such as medical devices and generators to make sure they work before the power goes out. Stay warm by wearing warm clothes or extra blankets. Do not use open flames or ovens as heat sources.
• Report any power outages to National Grid by calling National Grid’s outage number at 1-800-867-5222 or visiting their website or app.
• Never use a generator inside the home or the garage. Place the generator at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents. Only operate a generator in dry environments and on dry surfaces. If there is wet weather outside, use a canopy-like structure to protect the generator from the elements. Test your carbon monoxide detector or install one before using a generator. Always use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords in good working condition when plugging appliances into the generator.
• If you lose power and need a warm place to go, call one of the warming centers located within the county to confirm that they’re open. The warming center finder can be viewed on the Oswego County Health Department’s website at https://health.oswegocountyny.gov/programs/1_emergency_preparedness/warming_centers.php or by visiting this direct link.

The Oswego County Highway Department is prepared for the storm and urges drivers to be ready for difficult conditions on the road.

“The forecasted snow and ice will cause potentially dangerous road conditions, and we want to remind drivers to be cautious while traveling during hazardous weather,” said Oswego County Highway Supervisor Shawn Walker. “Avoid travel during severe weather if you can. If you must go out, drive slowly and leave extra space between your car and the car in front of you. While we’re out plowing, drivers can help us keep the roadways safe by not crowding the plows. Stay several car lengths behind the plow and slow down when approaching one. It’s safest to drive well behind the plow where the road is freshly clear and salted.”

Other winter travel safety tips include:

• Check the forecast before you leave and let others know of your route and estimated arrival time. Conditions can change rapidly, so it’s important to plan ahead. Leave early and anticipate delays.
• Always clear all snow and ice off your vehicle before driving.
• Prepare your vehicle before you leave by filling your gas tank and making sure your tires are in good shape. Bring emergency supplies such as a blanket, phone charger, bottled water, snacks, a snow brush, ice scraper, flashlight, shovel, jumper cables, and flares or a reflective triangle. Have a charged cell phone with you in case of emergency, but never text while driving. Keep cat litter or sand in the vehicle, as they can be used for better traction if you get stuck.
• Use caution on bridges, as they freeze more quickly than road surfaces.
• Winterize your vehicle by checking windshield wipers and filling washer fluid when needed.
• View live road conditions and travel alerts before you leave by visiting the 511NY website or downloading the mobile app.

It’s also important to follow safe practices during snow removal to prevent injuries. Dress in layers to protect areas that are common for frostbite, stretch before shoveling, stay hydrated, watch out for ice, and take breaks when necessary.

“We encourage residents to check in on older adults and neighbors, especially those who may need help with snow removal,” added Palmitesso. “Help your community by shoveling out fire hydrants near your house if you are able to do so safely.”

Residents should clear snow from their entryways and emergency exits of their home. Exterior gas meters and utility vents should also be cleared of snow and ice to maintain proper airflow and avoid potential carbon monoxide poisoning risks.

Snow should also be removed from the roof to minimize the risk of damage or collapse due to wet, heavy snow. Be aware of signs of a structural collapse, such as a sagging roof, cracks in the ceiling or walls, difficulty opening doors, popping, creaking or crackling sounds, and leaks. Residents that experience a structural collapse or believe they may be at risk of one should call 911.

Those who many need assistance with snow removal, including roof clearing, can view a list of snow removal services on the Oswego County website at https://www.oswegocountyny.gov/departments/public_information/snow_resources.php. Homeowners are responsible for paying for the services.

For more information on preparing for severe weather, visit www.ready.gov or www.oswegocountyny.gov/emo, or call 315-591-9150.