Community Corner

Winter Driving and Snow Removal Tips

Be prepared for winter weather.

While the Virginia Department of Transportation is responsible for snow removal in the majority of Fairfax County, in the Town of Herndon limits the Department of Public Works handles snow removal. 

During winter weather main roads will receive first priority for salting, sanding and plowing. Once those roads are cleared the town will address remaining streets. 

During snow storms, Herndon residents should: 
• Avoid parking vehicles on streets and cul-de-sacs. It limits the ability for snow removal vehicles to effectivly remove the snow. Additionally, cars parked on snow removal roads may be towed. 
• Clear sidewalks near their businesses or homes. Herndon DPW doesn't remove snow from sidewalks unless they are near schools or critical road crossings. Don't block storm drains or fire hydrants.  

Find out what's happening in Herndonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

During storms the Department of Public Works Operations Center is manned continuously. DPW may be reached at 703-435-6860. Police dispatch is available 24 hours a day by calling 703-435-6846. 

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has some safety tips for area residents as well.

Find out what's happening in Herndonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Drivers should have emergency kits in their car. Kits should include jumper cables, a blanket, warm clothes such as gloves, hats, boots and scarves, an ice scraper, a first-aid kit, water and nonperishable snacks, a flashlight, a basic tool kit, extra washer fluid and a couple extra quarts of oil. 

According to VDOT, residents should try to stay off roads if possible when temperatures are below 32 degrees. If roads are wet ice patches are possible on bridges and curves. Drivers should also avoid using cruise control in winter conditions. VDOT urges drivers to keep a safe distance behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing roads.

Residents should have an emergency supply kit prepared. It should include basic items such as three days worth of food and water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and extra batteries and a family emergency plan. It should also include a first-aid kit, medications if needed, blankets, warm clothes, pet items or other supplies for special members of families.

There should also be an out-of-town relative or friend who can help serve as a point of contact for emergency communications. There should be a meeting place that families agree upon if they cannot return home due to closed roads.

Residents should also do their best to stay informed before, during and after storms. They should listen to local media and emergency officials, who will help provide instructions from local, state and federal agencies that cover road conditions, weather warnings and watches, power outages and other information.

Online Resources
www.virginiadot.org

www.virginiadot.org/about/emer_response.asp

www.511virginia.org

www.ReadyVirginia.gov
  

Twitter
http://www.511virginia.org/twitter.aspx?r=1
  
www.twitter.com/VaDOT
  
www.twitter.com/vdem

Facebook
www.facebook.com/virginiadot
  
www.facebook.com/pages/Richmond-VA/Virginia-Department-of-Emergency-Management/49657868065

YouTube
www.youtube.com/vdotweb
www.youtube.com/VAEmergency


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