Winter Storm Blair & Emergency Procedures

Winter storm Blair left an impact on many parts of the State and region and Jackson County was not left out of it. We have seen everything from snow, rain, freezing rain, thunder, ice and about everything else but sunshine with this system. It has been unique to say the least. I spent the majority of the day Sunday and Monday with our Emergency Management Department at the 911 Operations Center monitoring the impact we were seeing, mainly electricity outages and infrastructure concerns. State and local road crews did an excellent job with road clearing and tree removal. The majority of our crews worked 16 plus hours Sunday and about that much Monday. The next part of this system is the frigid temperatures. If electricity is off for an extended time we have to start thinking about opening emergency shelters. We have a plan in place should shelters become a necessity. We will do our best to keep the public informed should any emergencies such as an extended power outage for a large number of citizens become an issue. In the meantime, we have first responders checking up on those without electricity for an extended amount of time. We are already looking ahead and watching the next potential system that is coming in this weekend. Hopefully it won't be as bad. 
I have many people ask about trash pickup during the winter weather. If we miss a day we will do our best to catch you up on Fridays. That is the day that is not as busy for our route drivers. I realize it is an inconvenience and I apologize for that. I don't believe anyone expects us to put employees in danger to pick up garbage or at least I hope they wouldn't. I would recommend that if you possibly can, purchase an extra trash can. It is the best way to handle overflow garbage. 
Remember to keep a check on elderly neighbors and friends during the winter months. 
Have a blessed week