Safety First: How to Weather the Winter Storm

Dover officials stress common-sense solutions – and following the road signs – to manage what could dump a foot or more of snow.

The snow may be beautiful to many, and a hassle for others. Local officials ask all residents to follow snow-emergency rules to stay safe. (Photo/Pexels.com)

Forecasters seem pretty sure that the looming snow – expected to begin Sunday and extend into Monday – could be the most powerful to rock the region in the last five years.

We could be facing 12 inches or more of the white stuff, which means a) you need to hit the grocery store early, and most importantly, b) be smart and safe to help everyone weather the storm. Local officials are reminding residents to keep sidewalks and streets clean and safe.

The Dover Police Department is actively enforcing the Town’s Snow Ordinance and the State’s Abandonment of Motor Vehicles Law.  

• Key Points to Remember: It is unlawful to park or leave a motor vehicle on a public street for more than 48 hours. Vehicles left beyond this time will be considered abandoned and may be towed at the owner’s expense. 

• Why This Matters: Ensures roadways are clear for effective snow removal. Reduces the risk of accidents and property damage during winter conditions. Please move your vehicles promptly to avoid being ticketed or towed, and to help keep our community safe.

“As we prepare for the upcoming snowstorm, we urge all residents to take the necessary precautions, limit travel unless absolutely necessary, and obey all posted parking restrictions,” said Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney. “These measures are in place to allow crews to safely and efficiently clear the roadways and ensure the safety of the public and our first responders.”

Dover Public Information Officer Jordan Ramirez reinforced the town’s commitment to working together to ensure that snow-emergency rules are followed for the safety of all residents.

“The Dover Police Department is currently enforcing the municipal snow ordinance and the state's Abandonment of Motor Vehicle Law to remove snow-covered vehicles from the roadways,” he said.  “We have posted a public safety message regarding these efforts on our Facebook and Crimewatch pages. Additionally, the DPD has been working closely with the DPW to target problem areas. As of yesterday, multiple vehicles have been towed, and multiple summonses have been issued for snowbound violations. 

Ramirez said the town is also dedicated to finding solutions for community members facing challenges. “In addition, the town is working on providing the community with a warming center,” he said. “We are currently waiting for final confirmation of the Code Blue location. Once confirmed, the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), the Police Department, Kiwanis Club (Frank Cahill),  including the chaplains appointed at the [Dover Municipal] reorganization meeting, will coordinate logistics directly with Father Rod Perez of St. John’s Episcopal Church.”

On a larger scale, the NJ Office of Emergency Management has many tips and resources to help residents weather the storm. CLICK HERE to review their list.

The American Red Cross offers a variety of common-sense solutions to stay warm and healthy during any snowy event. CLICK HERE to learn more.