Above and Beyond: Pride of the Public Servant

B.READY attended the 27^th Annual APWA Western Snow & Ice Conference and National Snow Roadeo. The theme this year, Above and Beyond, brought to the forefront the obstacles endured this past year. All across the country, snow and ice operations were faced with challenges to keep highways, streets, bike lanes, sidewalks, downtown business districts, and parking lots open for emergencies and daily commuters.

The severe conditions this past winter provided new experiences for managers, supervisors, operators and mechanics. That information, and more, was shared in three days of education, training and roundtable sessions. Approximately 80 vendors exhibited the most up-to-date technology and equipment, and the conference's major sponsors offered one-hour sessions on a variety of topics. The National Snow Roadeo proved to be a popular competitive event that tested the skills and knowledge of equipment operators from around the country.

When a snow emergency is declared, will you be prepared? B.READY was proud to see the conference sessions share valuable tips of the trade that every public works manager needs to know, especially during an emergency. Sessions included what is new in the area of equipment and technology, how to effectively communicate with the media and public during an emergency, how public agencies work together to share equipment and resource during times of crisis, cutting edge fuel alternatives, details of why every agency must have an adequate safety program, when and where to activate an emergency command center, and how to support snow removal personnel through the planning of shifts, food and sleeping arrangements.

Every citizen has a role to play in emergency readiness. Do your part today by resolving to make a plan and make a difference. Further information about ways to prepare for disasters and how to "B.READY" can be found at www.READYColorado.com.

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