Snow. An unavoidable part of living in this part of the country in the winter.
From what I know, the majority of counties in Ohio declare snow emergencies depending on how bad conditions are.
This is the snowiest winter Bowling Green has experienced since I’ve been a student here, so I’m slowly learning the “rules” of living in and driving in Ohio in the winter.
I’m from Michigan; and counties in Michigan don’t declare snow emergencies the way they do in Ohio.
Back home, if a snow emergency is declared, it simply means cars need to be moved off the streets in order for the plows to get through. It’s the equivalent of a level two snow emergency here.
Between living off campus this year and the amount of snow we’ve had this winter, I’ve learned that things are a bit different here.
I was in Michigan during winter break when the level three snow emergency was in place here, Out of curiosity, I looked up exactly what that meant.
I had no idea that a level three snow emergency meant basically all of the roads are closed except to emergency vehicles and that someone can be arrested if they are out driving.
I think this is ridiculous.
I understand that safety is important, but as an adult, I believe I can make my own decisions.
If I want to go out and risk my life driving in the snow, I feel like I should be able to make that decision.
Some people don’t always prepare for snow storms like they should. Some don’t have money right away and need to wait for a paycheck in order to buy food and supplies.
If the snow comes before someone gets paid, how are those people supposed to pick up food and other things that they need if it’s basically illegal to leave their house?
What if someone has an elderly relative or friend that needs help getting around or moving snow?
Driving to their house is basically illegal during a level three snow emergency.
I’m not saying to go out and drive, but if you need to, be safe about it. Always go with the safest option.
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