City of Providence feels confident in preparation ahead of winter storm

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Snow plows formed a long line in Providence to load up their vehicles with salt ahead of the big storm.

“The thing is this is our first storm in a while. We New Englanders don’t have our sea legs under us right now,” said David Radcliffe, deputy director of PEMA.

The City of Providence feels prepared ahead of the coastal storm.

“The DPW is ready, they have been training for snow since the fall,” said Providence Mayor Brett Smiley. “I am happy to say to residents of Providence that all of our plows are in good working order. We have a good complement of private vendors, salt and sand piles are full, and we are ready to face the storm we are now expecting, with a much higher degree of confidence, Saturday night into Sunday.”

The mayor reminded people to take responsibility when it comes to snow clean-up.

“Property owners are responsible for their sidewalks and the city is responsible for the public sidewalks, over bridges and public rights of way,” Smiley said. “Shovel your sidewalk, that is important for kids walking to school and also for people with mobility issues.”

The Providence Emergency Management Agency added their suggestions for when the storms arrive: “Take it slow. Don’t travel if you don’t have to. If you do go out, leave space between you and the other vehicles…If you have elderly neighbors, make sure you check on them before, during, and after the storm.”

A snow plow driver gave perhaps the most important tip.

“The most important thing is for people to stay off the streets, stay home…makes our job a lot easier and things go a lot smoother,” said plow driver George Veader.

In the case of any emergency during the storm, you can sign up for updates from the city of Providence on its 311 app.