LEONARDTOWN, Md. – St. Mary’s County is expected to experience above-average snowfall during the 2025-2026 winter season. Residents are encouraged to prepare now and follow important safety tips to protect themselves, their families, and their neighbors when winter weather occurs.
Tips During Snowfall:
• Shovel sidewalks and driveways.
The Department of Public Works & Transportation and the State Highway Administration are responsible for clearing roadways. Sidewalks and driveways remain the responsibility of property owners. Clearing these areas helps keep neighborhoods accessible and safe for pedestrians.
• Clear snow from fire hydrants.
Residents are asked to shovel a three-foot radius around fire hydrants and ensure they are visible from the street. Clear access allows fire and rescue personnel to respond quickly during emergencies.
• Remove all snow and ice from vehicles before driving.
Clear windows, roofs, lights, mirrors, and license plates to maintain visibility and prevent snow or ice from becoming a hazard to other drivers.
• Don’t crowd the plow!
When snow plows are operating, maintain a safe distance of approximately 200 feet. Avoid passing plows and remain patient as crews work to make roadways safer for everyone.
• Avoid overexertion while shoveling snow. Cold temperatures combined with heavy lifting can put significant strain on the body. Pace yourself, lift with your legs, and stop immediately and call 9-1-1 if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
• Practice home heating safety.
Keep flammable items at least three feet from all heat sources. o Have chimneys and furnaces inspected annually.
Turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to sleep. o Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets, not extension cords.
I’m 71 and too old to shovel snow. I have severe asthma and back and knee problems and was told by my doctor to get someone else to shovel.my driveway and sidewalks. Well that’s easier said than done when your spouse is also elderly and has health problems that prohibit him from shoveling snow and your kids live over 900 miles away in Florida. We live in Charles County, MD.
There used to be a time when healthy kids and teenagers offered to shovel snow and mow lawns to earn a few extra dollars. They would go from door to door offering to help. Now they’re inside with their nose to a computer, iPhone or video games and not interested in earning money. Their parents give them everything they want. No need to work for it. Now you have to hire professionals to do that work and they charge $$$ to do it. Most can’t speak English. It would be wonderful if a group of healthy young people could join together, start their own business, and do a good job. Many folks would be so appreciative.
You need a larger space to list all your biases and negativity.
BIOYA
Hear that noise? Thats the panic generator being warmed up in the event of SMC getting any snow…