Deschutes County plea: Stay home, off the roads

Heavy snowfall has blanketed all of Deschutes County leading to hazardous driving conditions. Some roadways are impassable for most vehicles. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to forgo travel plans and stay off the roadways . Please allow road crews to get the roads clear to ensure safe travel.

City, county and state road crews are diligently working to clear roadways and ensure safe travel. Due to the amount of snowfall and potential for additional snowfall, it will be some time before all roadways are clear. Plows and sanders must clear main roads before residential streets.

Emergency Services (law enforcement, fire, and EMS) are prepared to respond to emergencies and have enacted contingency plans to ensure response. Road conditions may slow the response, but we will respond to emergencies. Deschutes County is coordinating with all local cities and emergency responders to ensure that critical services are being provided.

Deschutes County Emergency Management offers the following tips for winter storms:

Stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.
If you must travel, be sure you have a vehicle emergency kit including blankets, food, water, shovel, tire chains, and extra clothing.
Check on your neighbors, especially those who may need assistance.
Dig out your address marker and any fire hydrants near your home.
Ensure storm drains are clear to prevent localized flooding due to snow melt.
Ensure you have your 72 Hour kit available to meet your family’s needs for 3 days.
For more information go to: http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather