Broome Authorities Offer Storm Health and Safety Advice

While authorities around the region have been urging caution while driving, some even issuing advisories overnight March 1, there has been no ban placed on traveling.  Motorists are reminded to leave extra time to get where they are going if they have to be out during winter weather through March 2, leave a lot of space between vehicles, have at least a half of a tank of gas and stay inside your vehicle if you have an accident or other trouble until help arrives.

New York State Electric and gas joined area road crews yesterday in polishing off their preparations for the storm. NYSEG crews are ready should strong winds, gusting up to 50 miles an hour and heavy snow bring down power lines.

New York State has activated its severe weather plans and said Regional Emergency Operations Centers across the state had been set to deploy some support crews into the area to help.

During a briefing March 1, Broome County Emergency Services officials said while they were not expecting the severity of the weather that crippled the region last year with much more snow, they are prepared to augment 911 and office of emergency services staff as needed.

Broome County Sheriff David Harder said residents during severe weather should make sure their cell phones are fully charged if they need to call for help, activate four-way flashers if driving slow and remember to take breaks while shoveling to avoid back injuries and/or other serious health consequences like heart attack.