GREENSBORO, N.C. — All of the Triad are shifting gears ahead of this winter storm, including Greensboro.
The Greensboro Fire Department shared what steps they are taking to keep everyone safe. The fire department is making sure their trucks are fully loaded and ready to go.
They have to be prepared for accidents and the possibility of downed trees, so saws and generators are onboard.
Deputy Chief Dwayne Church with the Greensboro Fire Department said they respond to a lot of traffic accidents during weather events. There are 26 fire stations in the City of Greensboro. Church said those stations will be looking around to see if there are any tree limbs close to power lines and will be keeping an eye on them.
"Safety is the first thing on our mind, Church said. "We're going to respond just a little more slowly this weekend, so it may take just a little bit longer for us to respond and get to your residence or your emergency, but we're having to look out for the people who are on the road and ourselves," Church said.
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The City of Greensboro is also preparing. The city has enough salt for at least four large weather events kept in one of their salt barns. They plan on going out Friday evening to pre-treat the roadways.
One of their biggest messages is they want to remind folks to be careful this weekend.
"Of course, if you don't need to be out stay home, stay safe," Nathanael Moore with the City of Greensboro said. "If you do see crews out working, just be mindful of them and give them room to let them do their job."
There's also a hotline people can call to report any issues with snow or ice to the city. The number is 336-373-2076. The hotline will open Saturday, Jan. 15 at 5:00 p.m.
NCDOT officials in Guilford County said they will start brining Friday morning.