City of Danville Prepares for Approaching Winter Storm

The forecasted winter storm is expected to produce significant snowfall and freezing temperatures. The City of Danville is actively preparing to protect public safety and maintain essential services and encourages residents to take steps to prepare, as well. 

Public Works

The City of Danville Public Works Department has tuned up snowplows and treatment trucks, inspected equipment, and prepared salt supplies for immediate use. Crews are prepared to begin laying salt ahead of the storm and will continue road treatment operations throughout the event as conditions allow.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snowfall
• Give snowplows and salt trucks plenty of room to operate, including parking off the street when possible
• Use caution on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads, which freeze first

Danville Police Department

The Danville Police Department is prepared with additional staff to patrol City streets, monitor road conditions and provide assistance for motorists. The department reminds drivers that road conditions can deteriorate quickly during winter storms. Snow and ice greatly reduce traction and visibility, increasing the risk of accidents and stranded vehicles.

Roadway safety tips: 

• Stay off the roads if travel is not essential
• Slow down and increase following distance
• Avoid sudden braking and sharp turns
• Ensure headlights are on during low visibility
• Make sure tires are in good condition
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle (blanket, flashlight, water, phone charger, etc.)

Reducing unnecessary travel also helps keep roads clearer for emergency responders and road crews.

City of Danville Fire Department

Cold temperatures during winter storms often lead to an increase in calls related to space heaters and alternative heating sources. The Danville Fire Department urges residents to use extra caution.

Fire safety reminders: 

• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable
• Never leave heaters unattended
• Use only heaters with automatic shutoff features
• Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working on every level of your home
• Always operate alternate heat sources according to manufacturer instructions.
• Ensure proper ventilation for any fuel-burning heaters.

Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless but can be deadly. If your alarm sounds or you experience symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or nausea, go outside immediately and call 911.

Utilities

The City of Danville Utility Department is preparing for extreme cold that can affect both household plumbing and city water infrastructure. During significant winter weather events, it is common for the ground to freeze and thaw as temperatures fluctuate, causing the soil to shift which can increase the likelihood of water main breaks throughout the community. The City of Danville regularly monitors water usage and pressure throughout the system but asks residents to report any discoloration or loss of water pressure to 859-238-1241. 

As for protecting your home, the City of Danville Utilities Department recommends taking steps to protect your pipes below:

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls
• Allow faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses

Emergency and Non-Emergency Support

The Danville 911 Dispatch Center is available 24/7 throughout the storm and will increase on-duty personnel to handle increased call volume.  

• For life-threatening emergencies: Call or text 911
• For non-emergency assistance, including those seeking shelter: Call 859-238-1220

The City of Danville encourages all residents to take this approaching storm seriously, prepare now, and check on neighbors who may need assistance. By working together, we can help keep our community safer during severe winter weather.