Community Corner

Wind Alert: Police Advise Caution When Driving as Strong Gusts Continue

With the National Weather Service's wind advisory in place through Saturday morning, South Pasadena Police warn drivers to slow down, and be vigilant of items obstructing the roadway.

Wind gusts picked up again Friday afternoon, as the National Weather Service announced an advisory in effect through Saturday morning.

Advisories mean winds of 35 mph or greater are expected, according to NWS. So South Pasadena Police reminded residents Friday that "Strong winds can be dangerous as they can bring down trees, power lines, and can turn unsecured objects into dangerous projectiles.''

Police sent out this list of wind safety tips: 

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Reduce your speed while driving. Winds can make driving difficult, especially driving large vehicles. Keep a safe distance from cars in adjacent lanes as winds can easily push a car outside of its lane.

With power loss, traffic signals may be non-operational. Remember that California Vehicle Code 21800(d)(1) states that non-functioning traffic signals should be treated as a four-way stop sign.

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Motorists should be cautious of pedestrians crossing streets, especially with non-functioning traffic signals to help pedestrians cross safely.

Obey Crossing Guards around school zones. Motorists should be extra cautious around schools zones and watch for children.

Power may be lost, so be sure to have a portable radio and flashlight with fresh batteries nearby.

Small lawn ornaments should be placed inside garages to help prevent them from flying away.

Consider labeling trash cans with your address should the wind blow them to your neighbor’s yard.

Don’t leave pets outside during strong winds.

Strong winds can open unlocked windows and doors. Be sure to close and lock all doors and windows to your home.

Call 9-1-1 to report any downed power line or tree blocking a roadway.

• Never approach any downed power lines and don’t touch anything thepower lines may be touching.

 Be sure all emergency contact numbers to family members are current.

Further, police suggested that now is a good time to review your family’s emergency plan and update your family’ emergency kit. The Public Safety Commission has been developing the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to help prepare residents in case of an emergency. CERT manuals are available at the police department, or on the city website, www.ci.south-pasadena.ca.us.

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