Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress During COVID-19 Pandemic - DECEMBER 15, 2020

 

5,982 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide

1,065 Patients in the ICU; 580 Intubated

Statewide Positivity Rate is 5.33%

128 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

"Everything we have done from the start of this pandemic has been based on the facts, and the facts are that COVID cases, hospitalizations and deaths are all on the rise all across the country. We are on an unsustainable trajectory and if we don't act now, hospitals could become overwhelmed come January," Governor Cuomo said. "Right now, New York is focused on growing hospital capacity through our Surge and Flex program and requiring hospital systems to begin working together so they are prepared. As those operations continue, it's on all of us to be smart, tough, and do what we know stops the spread - socially distance, wear masks and wash our hands. The goal is to avoid another shut down and we will only be able to do that if we all do our part."

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Test Results Reported - 194,188
• Positive Test Results - 10,353
• Positivity - 5.33%
• Patient Hospitalization - 5,982 (+270)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 743
• Hospital Counties - 56
• Number ICU - 1,065 (+25)
• Number ICU with Intubation - 580 (+8)
• Total Discharges - 92,136 (+376)
• Deaths - 128
• Total Deaths - 28,002

EDITOR'S NOTE:

Governor Andrew Cuomo, you have stopped indoor eating in New York City, and are about to call another pause like you did at the beginning of 2020, where you also postponed all special elections to the June Primary date. 

Governor Cuomo, why are you allowing the special election in the 12th City Council to continue when it and all other special elections the mayor has called, and will call after January 1, 2021 when some City Council seats become vacant should be postponed to the June primary 2021 as you did in 2020.

How many voters must get COVID-19 as they crowd into the poll sites.

CONSUMER ALERT: NYS DIVISION OF CONSUMER PROTECTION REMINDS CONSUMERS OF NEW YORK STATE’S REFUND POLICY PROTECTIONS

 

When Buying Gifts, Protect Your Wallet by Taking Note of Return Policies

Businesses are Required to Post Their Refund Policies or You Will Have 30 Days to Return

 As part of its seven-part consumer alert holiday series, the Division of Consumer Protection is today reminding consumers that New York State law covers refunds. NY General Business Law §218-a requires stores to clearly post their refund policies. When no refund policy is posted, consumers will have 30 days from the purchase date to receive a full refund or a credit (at the consumer’s option), with receipt or any other confirmation given to show that 30 days has not elapsed and as long as the merchandise has not been used or damaged.

“Around the holidays, gift givers and receivers often change their minds,” said New York Secretary of State Rossana Rosado, who oversees the Division of Consumer Protection. “It is important New Yorkers understand businesses are required to post their policies and let their customers know their refund options. Whether shopping online or in person this holiday season, I encourage all New Yorkers to check a store’s refund policy to be sure you are comfortable with the terms.”

A store’s refund sign must include the following information (at a minimum):

(a) Whether the store gives refunds and under what circumstances, including:

• on merchandise which had been advertised as “sale” merchandise or marked “as is”;
• on merchandise without a proof of purchase;
• at any time or not beyond a point in time specified;  
• in cash, or as credit or store credit only; or
• subject to any fees, including a restocking fee, and the dollar or percentage amount of each fee; and

(b) Consumers are entitled to a written copy of the store's refund policy upon request.

Be an informed consumer and follow these savvy holiday shopping tips:

• Ask for a copy of the refund policy.
• Ask if the store imposes a restocking fee for returned merchandise.
• Ask if the merchandise has to be in a certain condition for the return to be accepted.
• Save all receipts for purchases to allow for ease of returns.
• Ask for details about the advertised rebate.
• Does the store offer rainchecks? If yes, find out the terms and when it expires.
• How does the store notify the customer when the product is available?

Consumers having trouble obtaining a store refund are encouraged to file a complaint with the New York State Division of Consumer Protection.

The Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation, between the consumer and business, when the consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection. To view consumer alerts, consumers can visit https://www.dos.ny.gov/about/newsroom.html. The Division can also be reached via Twitter at @NYSConsumer or Facebook at www.facebook.com/nysconsumer.

Third Avenue Business Improvement District - Snow // Opposition to Council Bills // Resources

 

We put small businesses and families first. During a global pandemic which has decimated entire industries Third Avenue Business Improvement District continues to put small businesses and families first.  Today, we joined leading business organizations and employers, large and small, for profit and non-profit, across multiple industries, to demand relief and smart policies from our NYC, NYS, and federal elected officials.  It is time to put politics aside and focus on smart governing. We demand resources in the form of rent relief and grants, we have and continue to implore City Hall for less red tape and more opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Your neighborhood organization will continue to be here - we will continue to advocate for you.  You will always have a partner in the Third Avenue Business Improvement District. On behalf of the representatives of New York City’s employers, large and small, for profit and non-profit, across multiple industries, we are writing to oppose NYC City Council Intros. 1396 and 1415. These outrageous and unlawful bills will shutter struggling businesses across the city. The elimination of at-will employment and mandating that business owners use length of employment as the defining factor for layoffs is an inappropriate and illegal overreach by the City Council.    Should the City Council pass these bills, there will be significantly less employment opportunity in the quick service restaurant industry, long known as a generator of jobs to vulnerable populations who may face substantial barriers to employment. This includes non-English speakers, immigrants, formerly incarcerated individuals, working parents and students.   We hope the City Council will consider our thousands of employees and the most economically vulnerable New Yorkers. As so many people in our city are already struggling to stay afloat and so many businesses are struggling to keep their door open due to the pandemic’s impact, now is not the time to target small businesses again.   As the Governor and the Mayor continue to impose devastating restrictions on the restaurant industry, the Council’s bills would only cause greater hardship and force more New Yorkers into unemployment. The language contained within both pieces of legislation is reminiscent of collective bargaining language, which should be hammered out at the bargaining table and which the City Council has no legal right to impose on business owners. We implore the City Council to reconsider the very serious consequences of this legislation. We request that these bills be pulled from this week’s agenda before any further action is taken. Problems with the 32BJ Bills as written - CLICK HERE NYC Save Small Business Press Conference footage - CLICK HERE There is a snow advisory for #NYC with projected snowfall in excess of 8 inches. Third Avenue Business Improvement District will be out during the storm: ✅ Clearing crosswalks and pedestrian cuts ✅ Salting public space and stairways ✅ Clearing catch basins to prevent flooding.   If you see any unsafe conditions, please report it to 311 and the BID office at jmedina@thirdavenuebid.org or if an emergency 911. This is a reminder that all business owners are responsible for shoveling in front of their establishment. If a property is vacant, the property owner is responsible for snow removal. For more information, click here

Comptroller Stringer Calls on SEC to Investigate Tyson Foods’ Worker Health and Safety Disclosures Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

 

False and misleading statements by Tyson in its annual report paint inaccurate picture of the company’s health and safety measures

Tyson reportedly failed to properly enforce social distancing and protective face coverings, leading to widespread infections, hospitalizations and worker deaths

Calls persistent failure to protect workplace health and safety “unsustainable” and urges complete and accurate reporting to protect investors

 New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer called on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to open an investigation into Tyson Foods Inc. for making misleading disclosures to investors, including the New York City Retirement Systems, regarding its worker health and safety protections, and resulting risks, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Tyson’s slow and minimal pandemic response and the resulting infections, hospitalizations, and deaths among its workforce are well-documented; however, Tyson’s annual disclosure paints an inaccurate and misleading picture of the company’s safety culture and its claims that it continues to implement safety measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

“Tyson is flagrantly misrepresenting its poor pandemic response,” said Comptroller Stringer. “There is human cost to Tyson’s failures – preventable deaths, hospitalizations and sick workers. These failures have material impacts on its business operations that carry serious risks for shareholders. I am calling on the SEC to immediately open an investigation into Tyson’s misleading and dubious claims that they are adhering to OSHA and CDC safety guidelines, because shareowners need a full and transparent accounting into Tyson’s workplace safety and the risks to both workers and investors amid the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Tyson’s COVID-19 pandemic response was slow and insufficient as the virus spread through its facilities. Any steps that the company took to protect its workers were nominal and ultimately ineffective, including allowing workers to wear bandanas and sleep masks as ‘protective’ face coverings, which provide little to no defense against airborne COVID-19 transmission. Tyson’s severe downplaying of the severity of COVID-19 in its largest pork plant led to 1,000 workers becoming infected, as well as hospitalizations, deaths, and ultimately the plant’s closure. The company’s sick policy was similarly inadequate: pausing its policy of penalizing workers who call in sick only for a few months while incentivizing workers to continue working with $500 bonuses, then in June resuming penalizing workers who take sick leave.

As of December 3, 2020, Tyson has the highest number of COVID-19 cases of any company in the meatpacking industry, and more than three times as many cases as the second-highest ranking company, JBS, the nation’s largest meatpacking company, according to the non-profit Food Environment Reporting Network.

Tyson’s health and safety record was already problematic even before the pandemic began. In 2017, Tyson had the fourth highest number of reported severe injuries out of 14,000 companies from 2015-2016, and was fined more than $700,000 for health and safety violations in 2016 alone. In 2019, Tyson was ranked fifth by Human Rights Watch for reported severe injuries out of tens of thousands of meat and poultry plants. A shareholder resolution urging greater transparency on Tyson’s human rights record was supported by 37% of the non-insider, Class A shares that were voted at the February 2020 annual meeting.

To read Comptroller Stringer’s letter to the Securities and Exchange Commission, click here.

MAYOR DE BLASIO STATEMENT ON CONGRESS’ STIMULUS NEGOTIATIONS

 

Mayor Bill de Blasio today released the following statement on stimulus negotiations in Congress:

 

“A deal that sidelines local aid is a deal that sidelines our recovery. The latest proposal out of Washington abandons New York City and cities across the country, ignoring that we are America’s economic engine.

 

The entire point of a stimulus is to spur economic growth and help working class families. This proposal fails to do exactly that.”

 

Governor Cuomo Announces Updated COVID-19 Micro-Cluster Focus Zones - DECEMBER 14, 2020

 

Yellow Precautionary Zone Expanded in Niagara County; New Yellow Precautionary Zones in Genesee and Oneida Counties

5,712 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide

1,040 Patients in the ICU; 572 Intubated

Statewide Positivity Rate is 5.66%

83 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced updated COVID-19 micro-cluster focus zones in New York State. Niagara County's Yellow Precautionary Zone will be expanded. New Yellow Precautionary Zones will be added for Batavia, Genesee County, and for Rome and Utica, Oneida County.

"There is no politics or rhetoric in the number of people going into the hospital, and the increase in hospitalizations could overwhelm some regions if nothing changes by January," Governor Cuomo said. "That's the trajectory we're looking at and trying to change. We're simultaneously increasing hospital capacity and, frankly, changing how hospitals operate. At the same time we have to slow the spread by doing what we know works - social distancing, wearing masks and avoiding gatherings. If we don't, we know what closes down a region. It's called a red zone. That's the situation we're trying to avoid."

On Friday, the NYS Dept. of Health outlined the new metrics including in the state's Winter Plan for when an area is eligible to enter a "Yellow Zone" micro-cluster area. The geographic area will be eligible to enter a Yellow Zone if it has a 3 percent positivity rate (7-day average) over the past 10 days and is in the top 10 percent in the state for hospital admissions per capita over the past week and is experiencing week-over-week growth in daily admissions. Based on this criteria, the following areas today are designated as Yellow Precautionary Zones:

Modifications to Current Micro-Cluster Focus Zones

Niagara County - Click Here for Map

The current Niagara micro cluster will be expanded to include other areas in the county that have had high positivity and increasing hospitalizations, meeting the metrics for yellow zone designation.

New Focus Zones

Genesee County - Click Here for Map

A new yellow precautionary zone will be established in Batavia, which meets the metrics for yellow zone designation and accounts for the majority of hospital admissions from the county over the past two weeks.

Oneida County - Click Here for Map

A new yellow precautionary zone will be established in the Rome and Utica areas, which account for the vast majority of hospital admissions from the county and meet the metrics for yellow zone designation.

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Test Results Reported - 159,844
• Patient Hospitalization - 5,712 (+302)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 678
• Hospital Counties - 56
• Number ICU - 1,040 (+31)
• Number ICU with Intubation - 572 (+5)
• Total Discharges - 91,760 (+394)
• Deaths - 83
• Total Deaths - 27,870

MAYOR DE BLASIO OBSERVES VACCINATIONS OF HEALTH CARE WORKERS AT NYU LANGONE HEALTH

 Mayor Bill de Blasio: Thank you. Listen, I want to thank Joe Lhota and everyone at NYU Langone Health for this amazing moment we're about to share together, but, as you heard from Joe, also for the extraordinary role that NYU Langone Health played in helping make sure we all got to experience this moment and had a vaccine we could depend on. So, thank you, Joe -- to you and to all your colleagues. 

Everyone, this is a beautiful moment, a powerful moment. You're going to see health care heroes getting this vaccine. You're going to see them being protected so they can serve all of us. You're going to see a needle go in the arm, but that's not the shot that's most important, what really matters is we're getting a shot of hope here in New York City and all over the country. We're getting a shot of hope. We now know that we will ultimately defeat the coronavirus. To do that, everyone needs to be involved. And so, our Health Department led by Dr. Dave Chokshi -- he’s going to be out there all over this city, making sure that people get this vaccine, that it is fast and it's effective. We get out there to every corner of New York City, that the distribution is equitable, and we want to especially focus on those 27 neighborhoods that bore the brunt of this crisis in communities of color. 

 

So, what you're about to see is the biggest mobilization in the history of New York City. You're about to see the biggest vaccination effort ever in the hundreds of years this city has been here. And the amazing things that have happened in New York over the generations, this will be one for the ages. This will go into the history books, the greatest, fastest vaccination effort ever in the history of New York City, and it begins right here today. I feel we're all blessed to have this experience together. So, let's go and start – let's start rolling. Let's start getting people safe in this city. 

Governor Cuomo Directs State Agencies to Prepare Emergency Response Assets as Coastal Storm Threatens to Bring Heavy Snow, Strong Winds and Potential Coastal Flooding

 

New York City, Long Island, Southern Tier and Mid-Hudson Regions Could See Up to 12 Inches of Snow Beginning Wednesday and Continuing into Thursday

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today directed state agencies to prepare emergency response assets as a coastal storm system is expected to bring heavy snow, strong winds and potential coastal flooding beginning Wednesday and continuing into Thursday. While the track of the storm is still developing, early forecasts and models show it has the potential to deliver up to 12 inches or more of snow and sleet across the New York City, Long Island, Southern Tier and the Mid-Hudson Regions. New Yorkers are advised to take precautions now for this impending storm, which could also bring blowing and drifting snow, travel delays, and potential power outages.

"Forecasts are calling for this season's first major snowstorm in the Hudson Valley and points south, so it's once again time for New Yorkers to find their shovels," Governor Cuomo said. "On the state side, all of our agencies have readied their emergency response assets, are coordinating with local governments and will help ensure utilities are prepared to address any possible power outages. As the exact forecast becomes clearer over the next 24 hours, New Yorkers should not only monitor their local weather reports for updates, but start preparing their homes, their families and themselves for heavy snow as well."

The National Weather Service has already issued several Winter Storm Watches ahead of the storm. To view the complete listing of as well as access the latest forecasts as they continue to develop, visit the National Weather Service website.

Agency Preparations

Department of Transportation

The State Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with the following assets.

• 1,613 large snowplows
• 311 large loaders
• 179 medium duty plows
• 52 tow plows
• 38 snow blowers
• 20 graders
• 13 pickup trucks with plows

Thruway Authority

The Thruway Authority has 676 operators and supervisors ready to deploy 244 large snowplows, 94 medium snowplows, 11 tow plows and 61 loaders across the state with more than 123,000 tons of road salt on hand.  Variable Message Signs, Highway Advisory Radio and social media are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.

The Thruway Authority is also encouraging motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices.  The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go.  Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway here. 

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Response equipment is being fueled, tested and prepared for storm response use. Park visitors should check parks.ny.gov or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Department of Environmental Conservation

DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets are positioned to assist with any emergency response.

Department of Public Service

New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response and restoration efforts across New York State. Department of Public Service staff will track the utilities' work throughout the storm event and will ensure the utilities shift the appropriate staffing to the regions anticipated to experience the greatest impact.

State Police

State Police are prepared to deploy additional Troopers as needed to affected areas.  All State Police specialized vehicles, including four-wheel drive vehicles, snowmobiles, and Utility Task Vehicles are staged and ready for immediate response.  All Troop emergency power and communications equipment has been tested.

Port Authority

The Port Authority urges motorists to use caution during the storm; speed restrictions may be in effect at the bridges as well as along roadways to and from the crossings.  Travelers through the Port Authority's airports, bus terminal and bus station are encouraged to reach out to carriers and airlines directly for the latest information on delays, cancelations or re-bookings. For the latest information about Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA alerts or download one of the PA mobile apps. 

Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Metropolitan Transportation Authority personnel are hard at work to ensure safe, reliable service continues throughout the storm and aftermath.  MTA employees will be poised to spread salt and clear platforms and stairs of snow and ice, keep signals, switches, third rail operating, remove any downed trees that may fall across tracks, and attend to any weather-related challenges during the storm.  Customers are urged to check mta.info for the latest service updates before traveling, and to use extreme caution while navigating the system, especially on outdoor platforms and stairs. Customers should also sign up for real-time service alerts via text or email. These alerts are also available via the MTA's apps: MYmta, Metro-North Train Time and Long Island Rail Road Train Time.

Safety Tips

Power Outages

To prepare for potential power outages, New Yorkers should:

• Have a list of emergency numbers readily available.
• At home or at work, keep a battery-operated radio and flashlight on hand, as well as a supply of batteries. Keep an emergency supply of water, medications, and non-perishable foods handy. If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem - check with your physician or pharmacist.
• Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power. Charge cell phones and any battery-powered devices.
• If you have space in your refrigerator or freezer, consider filling plastic containers with water, leaving an inch of space inside each one - this will help keep food cold if the power goes out.
• If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the manual release level and learn how to operate it.
• Keep your car's gas tank at least half-full; gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. If you use your car to re-charge devices, do not keep the car running in a garage, partially enclosed space, or close to a home - this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Plan to have an alternative cooking source, such as a camp stove or outdoor grill. Follow appropriate safety rules for its use outside the residence.
• If you are considering a generator for your home, consult an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing.
• Have extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves on hand to keep warm.
• If you have a computer, back up files and operating systems regularly. Turn off all computers, monitors, and other devices when they are not being used.
• If you rely on anything that is battery-operated or power dependent such as a medical device, determine a back-up plan. For example, if you have a telephone that requires electricity to work, plan for alternate communication such as a standard telephone handset, cell phone, or radio.
• Learn about emergency plans in your area, including the location of the closest cooling and warming shelters, by visiting your state's or local website.
• If experiencing a power outage, New Yorkers should:
• Turn off or disconnect major appliances and other equipment, e.g., computers, in case of a momentary power surge that can damage these devices. Keep one light turned on so you know when power returns. Consider using surge protectors wherever you use electronic equipment.
• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. For a list of utilities in NYS visit the New York State Department of Public Service Check to see if your neighbors have power. Check on people with access or functional needs.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed - most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four (4) hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
• In cold weather, stay warm by dressing in layers and minimizing time spent outdoors. Be aware of cold stress symptoms (i.e., hypothermia) and seek proper medical attention if symptoms appear.
• In intense heat, consider going to a movie theater, shopping mall or cooling shelter. If you remain at home, move to the lowest level - cool air falls. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• If you are in a tall building, take the stairs and move to the lowest level of the building. If trapped in an elevator, wait for assistance. Do not attempt to force the doors open. Remain patient - there is plenty of air and the interior of the elevator is designed for passenger safety.
• Remember to provide fresh, cool water for your pets.
• Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic signals will stop working during an outage, creating traffic congestion and dangerous driving conditions. If you must drive during a blackout, remember to obey the 4-way stop rule at intersections with non-functioning traffic signals.
• Remember that equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs) and elevators may not be working.
• If the power may be out for a prolonged period, plan to go to another location, such as the home of a relative or friend, or a public facility that has heat.

Safe Travel

The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.

Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions. Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted.

Some of the most important tips for safe driving include:

• When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.
• Use caution on bridges as ice can form quicker than on roads.
• Wet leaves on roadways can cause slippery conditions, making it important to drive at slower speeds when approaching patches of them.
• Make sure your car is stocked with blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly-colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• Keep your gas tank full to prevent gasoline freeze-up.
• If you have a cell phone or two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
• Make sure someone knows your travel plans.
• While driving, keep vehicles clear of ice and snow.
• Plan stops and keep distance between cars.  Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

It's important to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways.  Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.  

Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions.  Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely.  The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted.

For a complete list of weather terms and what to do before, during and after a power outage, visit the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website.