Calhoun County, AL – The recent winter weather brought snow and icy conditions to the region, prompting swift and effective responses from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and the Highway Department. Both agencies worked tirelessly to ensure safety and minimize disruption for residents.
Sheriff Matthew Wade highlighted the Sheriff’s Office’s efforts during the event. “The storm was relatively mild compared to others we’ve faced, with fewer accidents and power outages, largely thanks to the community staying home,” he said. The Sheriff’s Office focused on transporting essential workers, including nurses and warming station staff, to and from their workplaces safely. Deputies also responded to medical emergencies, even assisting directly in critical situations when emergency services were delayed by icy conditions.
Sheriff Wade acknowledged the challenges that could arise with future winter weather, especially the potential for an ice storm. “Ice storms are far more damaging than snow, with the risk of power outages from fallen trees and heavy ice on power lines. It’s a different level of response to ensure people have heat, oxygen, and access to medical care during such events,” he explained.
On the infrastructure front, the Calhoun County Highway Department took a proactive approach to address the storm. County Engineer Rodney McCain detailed the department’s preparations, including replenishing supplies of sand and rock screenage and ensuring that equipment such as snowplows and graders were ready.
“We began pre-treating bridges and trouble spots with salt brine days ahead of the storm,” McCain said. For the first time, the department also mixed salt with sand to enhance the effectiveness of road treatments. During the storm, workers started as early as 3 a.m. to plow and sand major routes, ensuring roads remained as clear and safe as possible.
McCain emphasized that the department’s proactive strategies and improved equipment put Calhoun County in a strong position for success. “We’ve worked hard to upgrade our capabilities over the years, including acquiring additional snowplows and motor graders. We’ve also made significant investments in training and stockpiling materials so we’re ready for events like this. Our team is fully prepared to handle what the winter weather throws our way,” McCain said.
The county’s infrastructure is not just about roads; it’s about being equipped to handle unexpected weather and keeping residents safe. McCain praised the support from local leadership, saying, “The County Commission and other officials have been instrumental in making sure our department has the tools and resources needed to respond to winter events. That’s what sets us up for success.”
As colder weather looms, both departments are restocking supplies and maintaining readiness for potential ice or snow events. “We’re taking the same proactive approach to minimize the impact on our residents,” McCain emphasized.
The collaboration between the Sheriff’s Office and the Highway Department, coupled with the County’s strategic preparedness, showcases Calhoun County’s commitment to keeping its citizens safe and its infrastructure resilient in the face of winter challenges.
