Winter Storm Preparedness:
RADFORD, Va. - Radford City Officials have begun preparing for Winter Storm “Diego”, which will begin over the weekend. Often times during snow storms, the City’s 911 Dispatch Center is inundated with calls that are not considered to be an emergency. Public Safety Officials are reminding citizens to please only call 911 if you are having or reporting an emergency. For your convenience, other important numbers are posted below.
Non-Emergency Dispatch- (540)731-3624
Radford Electric Department: (540)731-3641 (Hours: 8:30-3:30)
Radford Department of Public Works: (540)731-3605 (Hours: 8:30-4:00)
Access Latest Road Conditions—call the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) at 511.
Preparing for Winter Weather Tips:
Primary concerns during a winter storm, while at home are loss of heat, power, and a shortage of supplies. To be prepared for the storm make sure to have the following items available:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information
- Extra food and water such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars and other food requiring no cooking or refrigeration.
- Extra prescription medicine
- Baby items such as diapers and formula
- First-aid supplies
- Heating fuel: refuel before you are empty; fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a winter storm
- Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or space heater properly ventilated to prevent a fire
- Fire extinguisher, smoke alarm; test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they work properly
- Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets
- Review generator safety: Never run a generator in an enclosed space
- Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris. During or after the storm, make sure it is cleared of snow.
- Home fires are common each winter when trying to stay warm. Review ways to keep your home and loved ones safe.
Another major concern during winter weather is traffic and vehicle safety. Avoid driving if at all possible, during a winter storm; however, if you need to drive in snow or cold conditions, TAKE IT SLOW IN THE SNOW. Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the winter season begins and carry a Winter Storm Survival Kit that includes the following:
- Mobile phone, charger, batteries
- Blankets/sleeping bags
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Knife
- High-calorie, non-perishable food
- Extra clothing to keep dry
- Large empty can to use as emergency toilet, tissues, toilet paper and paper towels
- Small can and waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water
- Sack of sand or cat litter for traction
- Shovel
- Windshield scraper and brush
- Tool kit
- Tow rope
- Battery booster cables
- Water container
- Candle and matches to provide light and in an emergency, lifesaving heat.
- Compass and road maps, don't depend on mobile devices with limited battery life
Connect to Radford to stay updated on the latest closings and conditions:
Website: www.radfordva.gov
Facebook: Radford City Government