Major Winter Storm Preparations Issued In Abington

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA — "Snow much fun is coming!"

That's the phrase the Abington Township Police Department issued in providing residents with some key points to remember as a major winter storm is expected to hit the region this weekend.

A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the entire Philadelphia region starting Saturday night and going through Monday afternoon.

Forecasters say they currently expect 10 inches of snow on the low end, but there is a possibility for some parts of the Philadelphia area to get 24 inches or more.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, N.J., said in a Thursday morning briefing they are now confident that the region has up to a 90 percent chance of seeing "major" impacts from this weather event.

Abington Township Police are offering these prevention suggestions to residents:

• Check on neighbors: Regularly check in on elderly or those living alone, particularly during heavy snowfall or extreme cold weather.
• Clear walkways: Shovel your sidewalks and pathways promptly to prevent slips and falls for yourself and others. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow, lift with your legs, and take breaks if needed. Do not shovel snow back into the roadway!
• Access to fire hydrants: Keep the area around fire hydrants clear of snow for emergency access.
• Snow removal assistance: Offer to help shovel snow for neighbors who may have difficulty doing so.
• Ice prevention: Pile snow away from your home's foundation and sidewalks to prevent melting snow from refreezing and creating slippery patches.
• Communication: Let your neighbors know if you plan to be away during a snowstorm and make arrangements for checking on your property.

But Abington police ended their suggestions with another suggestion: "Try to have some fun and share your snow pictures with us!"