OSWEGO COUNTY– As Oswego County agencies continue to assist municipalities with storm response, the Oswego County Emergency Management Office (EMO) provides more information on snow removal resources for residents.
“Due to the increasing risks posed by the excessive snowfall, we are coordinating with the state to get outside assistance with snow removal for our residents,” said Oswego County Emergency Management Office Director Cathleen Palmitesso. “New York Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) is coordinating with volunteer organizations to deploy and provide assistance throughout the county to help residents in need with free snow removal. Volunteers from Team Rubicon will come to Oswego County on Thursday and stay through the weekend. Starting on Wednesday morning, residents in need of assistance with snow removal can call one of our phone banks to request help.”
There are two phone banks for residents to call about receiving help with snow removal. Beginning tomorrow, people can call 211 or the Oswego County phone bank at 315-349-3330. The Oswego County phone bank operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., while 211 representatives are available 24/7 for calls. Homeowners will have to provide their name, address, contact information, details about the snow removal needed, and any complicating factors, such as medical concerns, accessibility or functional needs, etc.
“We are anticipating high demand for these snow removal services provided by Team Rubicon,” said Palmitesso. “Since we have limited volunteers, we can’t guarantee that all callers will be able to receive assistance. While there is no income-based eligibility requirement, services will be prioritized to those most in need. This includes residents that are completely snowed in, those needing snow removal for non-emergency medical related reasons, and residents that are elderly or have an accessibility or functional need.”
“Keep in mind that those requesting assistance will likely not receive help until the day after they call the phone bank, at the earliest,” added Palmitesso. “Those approved to receive assistance will be notified of their date and time of service by Team Rubicon.”
Team Rubicon will be providing assistance with clearing snow so that residents and emergency services are able to safely and quickly access the residence. Volunteers will be helping with shoveling, clearing of exterior vents and meters, and roof snow removal. Team Rubicon will not be going on top of roofs to shovel, but can remove snow from roofs by using a roof rake.
“Homeowners will not need to pay a fee for snow removal provided by Team Rubicon, and volunteers will be wearing identifiable clothing that shows they’re with the team,” added Palmitesso. “However, due to high demand, we do recommend that residents continue pursuing other avenues of assistance with their snow removal even if they have called our phone bank to request help.”
The Oswego County Purchasing Department has compiled a list of snow removal services in the county that residents can reach out to if needed. The list has been updated to include information on which companies may be able to provide roof clearing. Homeowners are responsible for paying for the services. To view the list, visit https://www.oswegocounty.com/departments/public_information/snow_resources.php.
Oswego County also warns residents about the potentially elevated risk of structural collapses due to this week’s weather forecast.
“There has been a significant rise in structural collapses within the past couple of days,” said Oswego County Fire Coordinator Shane Laws. “As of today, we have more than 50 confirmed collapses reported to 911, and it’s likely that there are others that have not been reported. It’s important that residents know the signs of a collapse so they can get out of their homes safely. Indicators of a structural collapse include a sagging roof, cracks in the ceiling or walls, difficulty opening doors, popping, creaking or crackling sounds, and leaks. Residents that experience a structural collapse or believe they may be at risk of one should call 911.”
“While this week’s warm temperatures and rain will cause gradual snowmelt, rain accumulating on top of snow will make the snow heavier and can cause further damage to roofs,” added Palmitesso. “Residents should leave roof shoveling to the professionals to avoid injury.”
Residents are also urged to follow safety tips from National Grid on snow and ice removal by visiting https://www.nationalgridus.com/News/2025/02/National-Grid-Offers-Safety-Reminders-for-Clearing-Snow-and-Ice-at-Your-Home-or-Business/.
Discover more from Oswego County Today
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.