First Posted: 3/3/2015
LIMA — Waking up to severe weather doesn’t always mean a warm day at home. For some, snow days don’t exist.
“While working in Lima and living in Columbus Grove, a lot of times I had to be at work at 5 a.m.,” Jeannie Beutler wrote as a comment on The Lima News’ Facebook page. “I would either be the first to make tracks or follow tracks on St. Rt. 65. Scary and dark, but almost never called in.”
Columbus Grove resident Jan Barkimer, a nurse at St. Rita Medical Center’s Intensive Care Unit, has never missed a day of work in 30 years, the 2005 ice storm included.
“Everyone works together here to get through it,” she said. “That’s the biggest thing.”
Still, some jobs require tasks that might seem crazy on days with temperatures below freezing or when ice coats the pavement.
For instance, Allen County Sheriff’s Office had rescue diving training Tuesday at Ottawa Lake. The session included 10 members from its diving team, firefighters from American Township and a park ranger from Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District. Under the ice, it was 35 degrees.
“It’s important to train in different weather conditions,” said Chief Deputy Jim Everett. “We wouldn’t be prepared otherwise.”
Though it’s rare, Joe Kitchen, Bath Township Fire Department chief, remembers a couple of instances when Bath Township road crews had to pick him up and take him to work. Usually, if bad weather is expected, the firefighters who’re supposed to be on duty come in early, even the night before, if needed.
“We make sure to do what we have to to get to work,” Kitchen said. “We can’t put a closed sign out there.”
Kitchen said cold weather can have serious impact on operations. Poor road conditions can slow response time or equipment can freeze, like water or pump lines.
The department makes sure the crew has the appropriate gear for protection, not only from the heat but extreme cold. They’re even equipped with snow shovels, too.
Emergency response teams from Lima Allen County Paramedics also have shovels on hand. Robert Smith, executive director, said it comes down to response time.
“We try to be extra cautious with other folks on the road but still get to where the person needs us,” Smith said. “Without us, the emergency still goes on.”
Staff is expected at work, no matter the weather. So, the center has accommodations for employees if they come in early before inclement weather hits. If they are struggling to get to work on time, there’s some flexibility.
“There’s no need to be in a big hurry,” Smith said. “We take each situation at face value.”
Still, with any season comes a unique set difficulties when on call.
“Winter certainly can be difficult, but the summer heat can also bring its own set of challenges,” Kitchen said. “After this winter, though, we’re certainly not going to be complaining when we’re warm and it’s hot outside.”
