As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, it’s essential to prepare your vehicle for the challenges of the season. Ensure your radiator system is serviced, windshield wipers replaced, and winter-grade wiper fluid used. Check your tires for wear, replace them if necessary, and monitor tire pressure regularly. It’s also wise to have your brakes, brake fluid, oil, battery, heater, and exhaust system inspected. It is recommended to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle stocked with essentials such as batteries, a flashlight, a hand-crank or battery-powered radio, scraper, jumper cables, mobile charger, blankets, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, and bottled water. These steps can help keep you safe and prepared in case of an unexpected situation.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for local emergency alerts through the Lenawee County Office of Emergency Management. These alerts provide critical life-safety information, including weather warnings and emergency updates. Visit www.lenaweealerts.com to register and stay informed.
In addition to vehicle and emergency preparedness, keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice is essential for ensuring safe and accessible neighborhoods during the winter. City ordinance requires that property owners or occupants clear sidewalks adjacent to their property. If snow falls or drifts overnight, it needs to be cleared by 12:00 noon the next day. Snow that accumulates during the day should be cleared by 12:00 noon the following day. Clearing sidewalks promptly helps keep our community safe and walkable for everyone, including children heading to school and those with mobility challenges.
Additionally, citizens can now purchase accident/crash reports online through our website. To access this feature, from the Menu, click on "Police Department" under "Public Safety." Reports will be available five to seven business days after an incident and can be searched using either the incident number or driver’s license number and date of birth of the driver. Step-by-step instructions are provided to make the process straightforward.
Be prepared, stay informed, and have a safe winter season.