Winter 2009-2010 snow events have been declared a "State of Emergency" in Virginia, including the snow that is falling faster at this moment than these words can be typed.
What does a "State of Emergency" really mean?
Such a declaration by the Governor "authorizes" state agencies to quickly aid local governments in response to an emergency. In other words, red tape is cut and put aside for later. This provides extra preparation time for emergency personnel and VDOT road management crews who -- regardless of what has been budgeted or expended thus far -- can access reserves and fund manpower or supplies needed to address the weather emergency and focus on road conditions.
The declaration of a statewide emergency is meant to give citizens a heads up that certain government functions -- like mail delivery or public schools -- may be suspended, and agencies are required to implement emergency preparation plans.
This also means citizens are "strongly urged" to stay off the roads. White-out conditions are expected, and this will create extremely hazardous travel conditions. With high winds also anticipated, power outages may occur (followed by AEP power bill outrages).
Sometimes, though, residents have employers who insist on employees being present even if their job functions are non-essential (customer base may be outside of weather emergency area), such as general business or retail operations. Then there are medical emergencies and evacuation routes must be maintained, so even during very hazardous weather conditions one may see vehicles out and about. Sometimes these travelers become yet another emergency that must be responded to.
There were some strong opinions expressed about Christiansburg's most recent response to a weather emergency at the last town council meeting. It was stated the Recreation Center parking lots were kept cleared because this is an evacuation center. The mayor reported he had "just discovered" his position was supposed to be the town's liaison to an inter-jurisdictional emergency planning and response team.
Looking at the Montgomery County Emergency Services website, citizens cannot see designated evacuation routes or facilities, and are redirected to Ready Virginia or local emergency responder websites that don't provide specific direction. In the event an individual, residences or business are impacted locally during this weather event readers can assume 911 centers could be quickly overwhelmed with calls for assistance or guidance.
A FEMA tool -- Are You Ready -- appears to offer an in-depth training guide for individuals and community preparedness while the Virginia Department of Emergency Management directs citizens to contact the American Red Cross or their insurance company for immediate emergency help.
These appear to be good resources -- yet only if citizens, business operators and government officials are aware they are available, if this information is widely disseminated to the community (well before they are needed).
In an emergency, there's no time for discovery.