Jan 21, 2026
General News
Snow emergencies
The decision to declare a snow emergency is made by the emergency management director. We declare a snow emergency for various reasons, primarily to ensure that roads remain clear and accessible.
So, why aren’t cars being towed? Our police department doesn’t have the time and resources to patrol every street in Falls Township. Instead, they collaborate with public works drivers who are actively plowing streets on an as-needed basis. If public works encounters difficulties plowing certain streets, they coordinate with the police and remove cars if the owners cannot be contacted. The majority of the time, the owners are contacted, and the vehicles get moved.
As most of you have probably seen, there is a potential for a significant snow event this weekend, with various sources stating the accumulations could be substantial. While this is still too far out for any type of true forecast, I would like to give everyone some additional time to prepare to move all your vehicles, boats, trailers, off all township streets in the event that we declare a snow emergency. With less obstacles it allows our emergency services a quicker response to you in time of need, and also allows our public works an easier path to clear our roads. As of the latest forecast, the predictions are double digit amounts of snow in our area starting on Sunday. While this is still days away and could easily change, please prepare for the worst case scenario. Below are some tips from the Red Cross in case of a severe storm:
- Gather food, water, and medicine before a winter storm. Stores might be closed, and it may be unsafe to travel.
- Organize supplies into a Go-Kit and a Stay-at-Home Kit.
- Go-Kit: at least three days of supplies you can carry with you if you need to go somewhere else to stay warm. Include critical backup batteries and chargers for your devices (cell phone, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.).
- Stay-at-Home Kit: at least two weeks of supplies.
- Ensure you have enough warm clothing, such as hats, mittens, and blankets, for everyone in your household.
- You may lose access to drinking water. Set aside at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day.
- Consider having emergency supplies in your vehicle, such as a blanket, warm clothing, a first aid kit, and boots.
- Have a 1-month supply of needed medications and medical supplies. Consider keeping a list of your medications and dosages on a small card to carry with you.
- Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe and easy to access (hard copies or securely backed up).
- Have a snow shovel and ice-melting products to keep your walkways safe.
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