ROCKFORD (WIFR) – Even before the flakes start flying, we go into snow preparation mode, whether its changing plans or stocking up on groceries. 23 News Reporter Marissa Sherer has more on how law enforcement agencies are preparing for the weather.

Both County and State Patrols are closely watching the radar to see just how much snow we’ll get. While many people are making plans to stay off the roads, deputies are making sure they have the tools to help stranded motorists.

The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department will be fully staffed during the snow storm and will not only be out in force in their normal patrol vehicles, but also on snow mobiles.

The Department uses four of them to get to drivers who have slid off the road and although county plows work with the Sheriff’s Department to get deputies to their calls, it doesn’t always work out.
“We have in the past, we’ve plowed our way to calls to get the emergencies handled because when something happens, you have to get there,” said Sheriff Richard Meyers.

Before heading out on their shifts, deputies make sure their cars are stocked with first aid kits and anything they may need to help stranded motorists. When the roads get bad, sheriff Meyers asks residents to stay off the road if possible.

The Sheriff’s Department will be watching the roads closely and will call in extra deputies if needed.