Public works crews have been in motion non-stop in snow-covered Ontario, Ore. They've even set up an Emergency Operations Center at City Hall.
As a precautionary measure, sand bags and sand are available to the public, free of charge. It was actually so cold on Wednesday, the sand froze before people could dig in. However, more sand was brought in. On site, you can learn more about how to use those bags most effectively.
"Underneath their crawl spaces or under their basements, that's what we're looking for," said Terry Leighton, the incident commander. "A lot of people who are in the lower lying areas have already prepared for it."
"We've been able to keep up with the mobility around town pretty well," said City Manager, Adam Brown. "So, we're looking down at the next step, the thaw."
Bags will be available for people to fill with sand on Thursday from 4-6 p.m. just behind fire station number two in Ontario.
A non-emergency number in Ontario has also been established where concerns can be voiced (541) 881-3260. Calls received after 5 p.m. will be returned as soon as possible the next morning. If there is an emergency, dial 911.
For up-to-date information, visit http://ontariooregon.org.
