01/26/2026
The morning after the storm...
Throughout the duration of the storm, Vernon Emergency Medical Services had 3 ambulances staffed (81-51, 81-53 & 81-55) as well as our first responder unit (81-45) and strategically placed them throughout town to ensure the fastest possible response to any emergencies.
In total, from 6am Sunday morning to 6am Monday morning, our ambulances responded to a total of 8 medical emergencies during the storm with patients being transported to Newton Medical Center and St. Anthony's Community Hospital.
As the storm winds down, and people start to head out to start their clean ups, we want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of some important "post storm" safety tips:
- Assume roads are still hazardous. Black ice and snow covered roadways are still possible.
- Give plow trucks some space. State, County and Local road crews are still working hard to get the roadways clear. Be patient - they will eventually get to you. Main roads take priority.
- At home, clear vents and exhaust pipes immediately. Blocked furnace, dryer or generator vents can cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Use generators OUTDOORS ONLY.
- Pace yourself when shoveling. Take breaks, push the snow rather than lift and stay hydrated.
- Be extremely cautious with snowblowers. NEVER stick your hand into a clogged snowblower.
- Treat any down powerlines as live and call your local police department or utility company if you see wires down.
- Check on elderly neighbors.
- Most importantly, especially with shoveling, DO NOT DELAY MEDICAL CARE. Chest pain, shortness of breath, confusion or falls should not wait. If you experience any of these symptoms or falls, call 9-1-1 immediately.
We would like to thank our ALS partners at St. Clare's Health for their response in the storm to several emergencies in town, our Vernon Police officers for their assistance and Vernon Township DPW for keeping the roads clear and responding with us to medical calls to make sure our ambulances could make it.
Lastly, we would like to thank Vernon Police Communications Operators (Dispatch) for their help and professionalism throughout the storm and making sure everything we needed got to us at exactly the right time.
We hope you all continue to stay safe and stay warm. Thank you all for your support.
