With wind and cold here, more snow in the forecast, and long term weather models saying it might stay near or below freezing until the end of the year, it is worth taking a moment to reminder islanders of a few key things:

• Please take a moment to check in on neighbors or those who mightneed an extra hand. Islanders have long relied on one another in times of need, and that tradition is just as important today.

• Don’t hesitate to call 911 if you or someone you know is suffering due to the weather. Warming shelters are ready to be opened on each of the islands if needed, and a wide array of community resources are available to help those in need.

• Power outages should be reported directly to OPALCO at 376-3599.

• Road crews are actively sanding the roads, but islanders need to use extreme caution while driving. Don’t drive if you can avoid it, but if you do, go slow, leave yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going, and put on chains or cables if in doubt.

• Sidewalks are also treacherous for pedestrians. Be extremely careful, and if you are unsteady on your feet, be cautious about walking outside alone if you are far from help.

• Reports are coming in of pipes freezing. If not caught now, when

temperatures warm, this will mean extensive flooding, water damage, and loss of pressure to water systems. When the thaw comes, take a moment to check on empty houses in your neighborhood or that belong to people you know to look for ruptured pipes.

For tips on dealing with ruptured pipes, driving in snow, and other winter weather wisdom, go visit the SJC Department of Emergency Management’s website at:

http://joomla.sanjuandem.net/index.php?view=article&catid=42%3Awinter-

storms&id=74%3Awinter-weather-wisdom&option=com_content&Itemid=74