With a winter storm watch in affect for most of Northern Indiana and the potential for significant snow accumulation of 3- 6 inches, it’s a good time to review the travel advisory system.
Marshall County Emergency Management Director Clyde Avery said that the county uses a Travel Advisory system that mirrors the Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s. The system is designed to protect the public by providing them with a standardized format that they can use as a reference to make informed decisions that could impact their safety when traveling on county roads during certain conditions. The decision to issue a travel advisory is made by the Marshall County Commissioners based on information provided to them by the Marshall County Highway Department, Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, and the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency as to the road conditions in the unincorporated areas of the county. The Commissioners do not control the Interstates and State Roads such as U.S. 30 and U.S. 31, State Road 17, 10, etc… They also do not make decisions regarding travel restrictions inside city or town corporate boundaries.
When a decision is made to implement a Travel Advisory or Travel Restriction, the following format is used:
• Warning – A “Warning” is the highest level of local travel advisory. It means that travel may be restricted to emergency management workers only. During a “Warning” local travel advisory, individuals are directed to refrain from all travel; comply with necessary emergency measures; cooperate with public officials and disaster services forces in executing emergency operations plans; and obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.
• Watch – A “Watch” level travel advisory means that conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a “Watch” local travel advisory, only essential travel, such as to and from work, or in emergency situations is recommended. Emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies, and other organizations.
• Advisory – The lowest level, an “Advisory” means that routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of a hazardous situation and individuals should use caution or avoid those areas.
For additional information regarding winter weather preparedness, you can contact the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency at 574-936-3740. Sign up to receive alerts at NIXLE.com or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
Remember: Emergency Preparedness Is Everyone’s Responsibility
