County crews serve the public during storms

San Bernardino County emergency crews have been on alert for much of the week as snow, wind and rain are expected to hammer our region well into Saturday.

Rain is expected to turn the heavy snow that fell earlier this week into potentially heavy runoff, posing a possible danger to areas below the El Dorado Fire burn scar. Rain amounts are forecasted at two and a half inches to four inches in the valley areas and three inches to eight inches in the mountains.

Residents are urged to use caution during the storms, and visitors are urged to exercise caution and courtesy once the skies clear. “No Snow Play on the Roadway” restrictions and penalties will be in full force once the snow begins to fall.

County Public Works yards activated operations crews on split 12-hour shifts on Tuesday and plan to work around the clock until the end of the storms. Public Works has equipment staged throughout the area for snow removal, which would begin once enough snow has accumulated enough to plow. On-call contractors have been on-tap to supplement Public Works forces for snowplows working in Blue Jay, the Big Bear area and Forest Falls.

The County Office of Emergency Services conducted a Flood Area Safety Task Force (FAST) meeting on Tuesday with all of the county’s first responders to coordinate safety activities for the storms.

County Public Works has been working with Caltrans to provide freeway messaging for mountain visitors to alert them of road conditions and chain requirements. Public Works is placing a mobile message sign at the U.S. Forest Service station near Bryant Street along SR38. Sign locations can also be found on the Caltrans webpage at quickmap.dot.ca.gov. 

The County’s operational area partners plan to have additional staffing available should it be needed. Public Works plans to send out storm reports and post road closures on its webpage.

Humans aren’t the only San Bernardino County residents who need protection from severe weather.  

Long, thick fur is not enough to keep your pets safe and warm during winter storms. As temperatures drop, pets, like humans, can become very cold and even experience hypothermia. As you prepare for cold, foul weather, remember to use these few simple tips to keep your animals safe and warm:

• Bring your pets inside. Keep them out of extreme cold temperatures and ensure they are kept in a nice, warm spot indoors.
• Ensure your pets are microchipped and that all contact information is up to date. This will make it less challenging if pets go missing and can help you find your loved ones quickly.
• Create a safe and comfortable space. Pets can feel more secure if they have a place to retreat to when thunder begins to roar.
• Turn on some soothing music to draw out noises. This can help minimize the loud sounds. Occupy your pets with toys or treats to soothe their anxiety and stress. 

For more tips and animal care related-resources, visit animalcare.sbcounty.gov.