Blizzard 2017 Update and Important Tips
County Executive Steve Bellone hosted a media update this morning to discuss the treacherous conditions of the blizzard. According to weather experts, we are looking at wind gusts of up to 50 miles per hour, an estimate of 18 inches of snow, Thundersnow and white out conditions. The real danger is what’s below all the snow. During the early morning a wintery mix of ice and sleet poured down along the roadways. That means that the roads will be loaded with black ice. Add to the icy roads, heavy wind gusts and whiteout snow accumulation and we are looking at a trifecta of extreme danger when driving.
Executive Bellone, Commissioner Sini, Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services Commissioner Joe Williams and Department of Public Works Commissioner Gil Anderson all agree, the best way to stay safe is to remain off the roads today. All schools have been closed, State and County Buildings are closed, health services and bus services are also not operating, with the exception of emergency services personnel. This is all done in the interest of public safety.
The St. James Fire Department Chief Edward Springer also issued an emergency press release with some helpful tips while the storm continues.
“We are urging all of our residents to stay home and to avoid venturing outside during this dangerous storm. Take necessary precautions, and work from home if possible. Please stay off the roads and practice home heating safety. Ensure that fire hydrants are accessible in the event that firefighter need to access water for a fire,” said St. James Fire Department Chief Edward Springer, Jr.
Safety Tips from the St. James Fire Department
- Do not venture out in blizzard conditions.
- If venturing out in the cold, wear warm clothing and cover exposed skin. Use multiple layers to ensure warmth.
- Take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls from icy conditions.
- Never use a gas stove to heat your home. Never use a kerosene or propane space heater, charcoal or gas grill or generator indoors.
- Make sure you have a working smoke detector.
- If possible, check on your neighbors, especially the elderly.
- Be cognizant of medical conditions that may result from extreme weather and over exertion.
We also spoke with Nesconset Fire Department Chief, Jim Keane who has issued a Standby order for all Nesconset F.D. members. That means that all hands are on Deck.
“We’ve equipped all Nesconset Fire Trucks with the necessary apparatus to get to people in the event of an emergency… chains, salt, shovels and extra personnel on standby. We’re asking residents to please stay off the road. If you live within the Nesconset District, and you have questions or a non-life threatening emergency, please call us at 631-265-1430” – Nesconset Fire Department Chief, Jim Keane
Chief Keane also advises all residents to please help keep your neighborhood safe during the blizzard. Keep fire hydrants visible that are located on your property by shoveling the snow around them. If you are a Nesconset resident and find yourself stuck (in a non-life threatening situation) or you have an important question on the side of the road
Important Tips from the County:
- The County is asking the public to sign up for CodeRed Alerts for up to the minute updates. You can sign up for CodeRed by clicking here
- Stay off 911 unless it is an emergency. Currently the Suffolk County Police has all hands on deck. They are already seeing an uptick in calls. For non-life threatening Police emergencies please call the local fourth precinct number: 631- 854-8400
- Get off the roads. The white out conditions of this blizzard will make it impossible to drive safely. Also, snow plows will have a tough time as well. By staying off the roads, you allow the plows to do their job.
Smithtown Today would like to remind our readers to please be a good neighbor. Check on elderly family and neighbors and make sure they have heat, water and food. Also, please do your civic duty: if you see an animal left out in the cold please call the Suffolk County SPCA at (631) 382-7722.