Over a dozen members of search and rescue teams (SAR) visited more than 20 Oswego County residents to help clear snow still blocking entrances and heating vents from the lake effect snowstorm that hit the county in February.
“We are very grateful for the assistance of these volunteers,” said Cathleen Palmitesso, director of the Oswego County Emergency Management Office (EMO). “Since opening the call centers Feb. 26, we’ve received more than 200 calls for assistance. The search and rescue teams, Team Rubicon and Mennonite volunteers helped us reach many of them.”
The county discontinued the call center as of 4 p.m. today, March 5, because there are fewer residents asking for assistance. “This will enable us to focus on the requests we’ve already received,” said Palmitesso.
The Oswego County Pioneer Search and Rescue Team (OCSAR) secured help through the New York State Federation of Search and Rescue Teams (NYSFEDSAR). Members of eight teams arrived at the County EMO this morning to accept assignments for the day.
Aaron Albrecht, coordinator of OCSAR; Oswego County Fire Coordinator Shane Laws and Oswego County Administrative Assistant Gabby Doten all worked together to coordinate the volunteer teams.
“Teams of search and rescue volunteers went to homes around the county today,” said Albrecht. “They cleared snow from wheelchair ramps and walkways to provide emergency egress and ensured vents were properly cleared.”
People who still need snow removal services can find a list on the County website at https://www.oswegocounty.com/departments/public_information/snow_resources.php.
Residents must pay for these services. People should contact a professional for roof snow removal, as the recent rain adds to the weight of snow and causes an increased potential for collapses. People should also be cautious of heavy melting snow falling from roofs. Anyone at risk of a collapse or experiencing one should immediately call 911. Those displaced due to a collapse may be able to receive temporary assistance from the American Red Cross.
Palmitesso reminded residents that New York State is collecting information of uninsured losses to determine if a Small Business Administration disaster declaration is warranted. “People can fill out the survey online and provide photos of damages,” she said. “This information can only be provided through the survey link.”
People can click this link to complete the survey. This is NOT a form for federal relief programs. The SBA will issue an announcement if low-interest loans will be made available.
Reporting is voluntary and not a substitute for reporting damage to your insurance agency, nor does it guarantee disaster relief assistance. One survey should be submitted for each housing unit or business. People should attach photos of the damage as they complete the survey.
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