Lackawanna County is shifting into prep mode ahead of this snow, making sure emergency response and people at home are ready before the snow falls.

LACKAWANNA COUNTY, Pa. — As Sunday’s storm moves closer, Lackawanna County’s Emergency Management Agency is preparing for the largest snow totals it’s seen in years. 

EMA Director Tom Taylor says the unpredictability of this storm is making it tricky, “We plan for the worst at all times. The only thing is, it leaves a gap with what we might need.”

Crews are already checking equipment, coordinating with local road departments, and preparing for possible power outages and dangerous conditions.

They have their emergency operations center ready to respond, if needed. “If we have to activate fully, there will probably be 20-30 people in here, doing all sorts of different jobs. Like logistics, if people need salt, if people need back hoes to get rid of snow. If the power grid goes down, we’re in constant contact with PPL, we’re in constant contact with the water company,” said Taylor.

That same sense of urgency is playing out behind the counter at Dipietro’s Pharmacy in Dunmore.

“Deliveries are definitely busy today in anticipation for the snow,” said Alexandra Riggleman, Pharmacist.

With travel expected to become dangerous, they’re reminding patients to check that medicine cabinet early. 

“Look at medications today and see what they have- they can stop quick or we can deliver it today so they’re good for the storm,” said Riggleman.

If the power fails, they’re reminding those with refrigerated medications to utilize the cold weather outside. “It’ll be cold enough to serve as a refrigerator, hopefully the power doesn’t go out, but not for too long, maybe a garage or a cooler outside just so it doesn’t freeze,” said Riggleman.

EMA officials are providing another reminder for those facing power outages, as safety is a priority with this storm.

“Please, if you do own a generator and do lose power, please make sure the generator you’re using is in a well-ventilated area, not in a closed garage in your house, because CO poisoning is a real threat, and it does happen in storms like this because people just don’t think,” said Taylor.