3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Call 911 During a Weather Emergency

Now that it's been a few days since Western New York was hit with two back-to-back snowstorms that we've finally been able to dig out of, it's likely a good time to do a quick review of our preparations and response to the storm.

Due to advance warnings from the National Weather Service, government officials were able to issue several warnings in the days leading up to the storm, advising people and businesses to prepare for a major snow event. Snow fighting equipment was sent from other parts of the state, the National Guard was put on standby, and as the snow started to fall, schools started to close their doors to make sure kids were safe from going out.

Over a 5-day period, the two lake effect storms dumped several feet on Buffalo and Western New York, which led to two things that we knew would happen, no matter how much people were warned: shelves in grocery stores around the region were cleaned out, and people called 911 for help for things that are not an emergency.

Those non-emergency calls to 911 were so excessive, that government officials had to issue a statement asking people not to call 911 if it's not an emergency.

So, what that in mind, what are 4 reasons why you shouldn't call 911 during a snow emergency?

Don't Call 911 To Ask For Your Groceries To Be Picked Up

Yes, having groceries is a necessity; however, if your grocery order can't be delivered due to more than 6 feet of snow falling, maybe you shouldn't call 911 for that.

Photo by Maria Lin Kim on Unsplash

Don't Call 911 To Ask When The Travel Ban Will Be Lifted

From time to time, officials have to issue a driving ban. However, calling 911 to ask when it will be lifted is a waste of time - please don't do it.

Photo by Todd Torabi on Unsplash

Don't Call 911 For a Ride To Shovel Out Highmark Stadium

Yes, we all love the Bills. No, 911 cannot give you a ride to Highmark Stadium to help shovel because of the driving ban.

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When a massive snowstorm hits the region, nuisance calls to 911 like this make it more difficult for people with actual emergencies to get through for help.