Courtesy Photo/Dodge County Sheriff’s Office
A view of downed power lines on Platte River Road (the old Highway 30).
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The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office, Fremont Police Department and Fremont/Dodge County Communications responded to numerous calls during the blizzard of March 19.
During the storm, Fremont/Dodge County Communications handled more than 364 calls for service, ranging from traffic-related incidents to electrical line issues. These calls included:
· Stranded Vehicles: More than 79 reports of stranded vehicles were received, with deputies, officers and local tow companies assisting drivers who became trapped in snowbanks or stuck in hazardous conditions. FPD utilized the MRAP vehicle to get to stranded motorists on the Highway 275 by-pass east of Fremont.
· Medical and Fire Calls: Fremont Fire Department (EMS) and firefighters responded to 16 medical emergencies and seven fire-related incidents across the City of Fremont. Numerous other calls were dispatched to rural fire agencies during the storm.
· Public Safety and Welfare Checks: Dodge County Deputies and FPD officers conducted 11 welfare checks for individuals who were unable to contact family members or who needed assistance during the storm. Many of these checks were conducted in rural or isolated areas where road conditions were particularly dangerous.
East Military Avenue in Fremont during the storm.
Law Enforcement also worked tirelessly throughout the event to assist in road closures and provide public safety announcements. Emergency alerts were issued to inform residents of travel restrictions and the ongoing risks associated with the storm.
“We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during this severe weather event,” Sheriff Dustin Weitzel said. “We want to thank all our first responders, public works crews, and citizens who stayed safe, followed safety guidelines, and helped one another throughout the blizzard.”
