Big Medicine

Baltimore MD--With predictions of well over a foot of snow this coming weekend, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake assured residents with an update on Baltimore City’s preparations for the weekend winter weather. The Department of Transportation’s snow removal effort will include over 300 essential personnel, 263 pieces of equipment and 15,000 tons of salt.

“I am committed to ensuring that Baltimore’s streets are safe and accessible no matter how much snow falls over the weekend,” said Mayor Rawlings-Blake.

The Baltimore City Snow Team, which includes the Departments of Transportation, Recreation and Parks, Public Works and the Mayor’s Office of Emergency Management, coordinates all preparations for winter weather in the city. Working out of the Transportation Management Center, the Snow Team will monitor the storm as it approaches the region and issue warnings and alerts as necessary.

Mayor Rawlings Blake urged all residents to listen to radio and television for updates. Those interested in additional information and throughout this weather event can visit www.396snow.com or call the city’s snow line at 410-396-SNOW.

Residents are asked to refrain from driving during severe weather unless absolutely necessary. Those who must drive are asked to clear their vehicles of all snow and ice for the safety of themselves, other motorists and pedestrians. Motorists who chose to drive during the storm should travel with emergency supplies in their vehicles, including rock salt or kitty litter, warm weather gear and a flashlight.

During a snow emergency, the Department of Transportation will advise the public on road conditions and regulations through its Snow Emergency Plan phases.

* Phase I of the Snow Emergency Plan requires that all vehicles have snow tires, all weather radials and chains.
* Phase II of the Snow Emergency Plan requires the same as Phase I AND Parking is prohibited on designated snow routes. Vehicles left parked on “Snow Emergency Routes” are subject to ticketing and towing.
* Phase III of the Snow Emergency Plan calls for Emergency Vehicles Only on City roadways.

Mayor Rawlings-Blake reminds residents to be mindful of health risks associated with being outdoors during severe winter weather. Residents will be better equipped to weather the first three days following an emergency if they prepare a home emergency supply kit containing a portable radio, a flashlight with extra batteries, and water (one gallon per person, per day for three days), food and necessary medicines. Residents can visit www.readysetgood.org (External Link)for more information on preparedness.

In the event of an emergency, dial 9-1-1. For non-emergent situations, 3-1-1 should be utilized for questions and assistance.

“Throughout the weekend, please check in on your elderly or disabled neighbors,” added Mayor Rawlings-Blake. “Before you visit the store for extra batteries, water or food, ask if you can get something for them as well.”

The city has increased shelter capacity for those who need it. People needing shelter can go to the main city shelter at 210 Guilford Avenue.

Additionally, the Mayor warned of the silent danger of carbon monoxide gas. The colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating gas is difficult to detect. Residents should take precautionary measures to prevent this deadly gas from leaking into their cars or homes.