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Syracuse officials are urging residents to clear fire hydrants and avoid driving as the city grapples with a heavy snowstorm. Onondaga County announced that a travel advisory remains in effect until further notice. Syracuse Fire Chief Michael Monds emphasized the importance of clearing snow from around the city's 5,500 fire hydrants. He advised residents to shovel a three to five-foot space around hydrants and clear paths to them to ensure firefighters can access them quickly in emergencies. Additionally, Monds recommended clearing outdoor vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup in homes.
Incoming Syracuse Police Chief Mark Rusin highlighted the issue of illegally parked vehicles during snowstorms, which hinders snowplow efficiency and safety. The city has activated overnight parking restrictions, banning vehicles from parking on roads during these hours. Rusin also stressed the need for drivers to clear all snow from their vehicles, not just the windshields, to avoid visibility issues.
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh reported that the city's Department of Public Works has deployed 30 vehicles and equipment to clear roads, with drivers working 12-hour shifts. Walsh described the storm as the largest in many years, urging residents to stay home and off the roads. A snow safety alert was issued for Syracuse on Monday evening (December 29), with around a foot of snow already fallen and more expected.
According to CNY Central, residents are advised to move aside for emergency vehicles and only travel if necessary.