[Press Release] : Heavy Snowfall Snarls Traffic Closes Roadways

[pr-l at news.gocolumbiamo.com]

MEDIA RELEASE     12/01/2006 

For further information contact:

Battalion Chief Steven Sapp

573-874-7557 – office

573-441-4702 – pager 

Heavy Snowfall Snarls Traffic Closes Roadways 

The Columbia Fire Department and other emergency agencies are urging everyone to stay home today. The heavy snowfall and the blowing and drifting of snow have made all roads in the area impassable. 

The Missouri State Patrol indicates that all major highways are impassable.  

Roadcrews from MODOT, Boone County Public Works, and the City of Columbia are beginning to get out again after heavy snowfall and drifting snow forced them to delay efforts to keep the roadways open.  

Columbia Fire apparatus have encountered conditions which have made their responses very difficult.  

Bottom line – STAY HOME. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TRAVEL.  

If you are already out in the storm. Seek shelter and get off the roadways.  

If you become stranded in your vehicle remember the following: 

Stay with your vehicle.  

Turn your flashers on. 

If you have a cell phone, notify 9-1-1 of your location. 

Run your vehicle only for 15 minutes and then shut it off for 15 minutes. 

Make sure the tail pipe is clear – blocked exhaust pipes can cause dangerous levels of CO to build  up and could be deadly.  

Use coats, blankets or available materials in your car to dress in layers for warmth.