OSWEGO COUNTY – Oswego County continues to dig out from the lake effect storm that struck earlier this week and local officials offer these updates on the clean-up efforts.
“Our county departments have been working with local municipalities, agencies and New York State to help clear roads and protect our residents,” Oswego County Legislature Chairman James Weatherup said. “While the roads are slowly being cleared, we urge people throughout the county to drive cautiously and be mindful that even if the road is clear, snowbanks on side streets may be too high for drivers on the cross street to see approaching traffic.”
The county-wide “state of emergency” declared by the Legislature Chairman remains in effect, as does the travel advisory issued by Oswego County Sheriff Don Hilton.
The “state of emergency” declared by Chairman Weatherup under New York State Executive Law Article 2B raises awareness among people that emergency conditions exist and allows him, as the chief elected official, to take necessary actions to protect public safety.
“The declaration does not mean people cannot travel throughout the county, said Cathleen Palmitesso, director of the Oswego County Emergency Management Office. “They should continue to use caution and monitor the information channels provided by their local municipalities for updates.”
The heavy snowfall has resulted in another three confirmed structural collapses in the county, making the total so far 26.
“Residents who believe their home is beginning to collapse should call ‘911,’” Oswego County Fire Coordinator Shane Laws said. “Their local fire department will do a welfare check and determine whether the structure is stable. If it is not, the firefighters will ensure that everyone inside has a safe place to go or will contact the American Red Cross for assistance.”
The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) deployed the New York Task Force 2 (NY-TF2), a team specialized in structural collapse support. That team began working with the Oswego County Fire Coordinator’s Office, Volney Fire Department and the county’s technical rescue team yesterday and rescued a male from a collapsed shed on county Route 176 in the town of Volney. The county team is comprised of fire department members from throughout the county.
“Declaring of a ‘state of emergency’ does not result in emergency funding for homeowners,” Palmitesso said. “People who have sustained damages to their homes should contact their insurance companies.”
While Oswego County is unable to help residents with snow removal, the Oswego County Purchasing Department has compiled a list of snow removal services in the county that residents can reach out to if needed. Homeowners are responsible for paying for the services. Information on which companies may be able to provide roof clearing has also been added. To view the list, visit https://www.oswegocounty.com/departments/public_information/snow_resources.php.
“We encourage everyone to check in on their family members, friends and neighbors, especially if they are elderly or disabled,” said Palmitesso.
The snow event began on Friday, Feb. 14 and continued through early Wednesday morning, Feb. 19. The National Weather Service Buffalo Forecast Office reported the high totals for the week included 79.1 inches in Palermo, 55.8 inches in Minetto, 50.9 inches in Mexico, and 41 inches in Fulton.
For more information, call the Oswego County Emergency Management Office at 315-591-9150 or go to https://www.oswegocounty.com/departments/public_safety/emergency_management/index.php.
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