STANDING READY – Weirton officials addressed their preparations for the winter storm expected to hit the area this weekend, which includes staffing of all four of the city’s fire stations and plans to open the Millsop Community Center as an emergency shelter. -- Craig Howell

WEIRTON — The City of Weirton is taking an all-hands-on-deck approach when it comes to preparing for the winter storm heading toward the Ohio Valley this weekend.

Municipal staff in multiple departments are coordinating services in the event they are needed to assist residents during and after the snowfall, which forecasters are expecting to reach more than a foot in the Weirton-Steubenville area.

“We want to make sure people understand we are here to assist them,” Mayor Dean Harris said during a press conference held at the Weirton Municipal Building Friday afternoon. “Police, fire, and public works are all working together.”

The Weirton Millsop Community Center will be available for use as an emergency shelter, beginning Sunday morning, for residents who may experience a loss of essential utilities as a result of the storm. It will remain in service until all needs are met.

“All of our normal services will be canceled,” explained Parks Executive Director Coty Shingle, who asked patrons of the center to be patient as they assist those in need of aid.

Fire Chief Kevin Himmelrick noted his department will be available in all areas of the city, with firefighters available on the County Road and Marland Heights stations, as well as Headquarters and Gilson Avenue, to respond if needed.

“We are going to be staffed at all four stations,” Himmelrick said.

Those who are stranded in their homes without necessary services, or in need of emergency assistance, are asked to call 911 so appropriate aid can be dispatched.

Himmelrick also asked those residents able to do so to assist emergency responders by making sure any fire hydrants in their neighborhoods are clear of any snow buildup. If hydrants are covered, he explained, it makes it difficult for firefighters to locate and access them in the event of a fire.

Police Chief Charlie Kush, meanwhile, requested residents stay home, whenever possible, and to keep their cars off of the streets — parking in their driveways or garages — if they are able.

Noting many of the city’s residential streets tend to be narrow, he emphasized the importance of having a clear path for snow plows, as well as fire, police and emergency medical crews who may need to respond to an area of the city.

“The safety of the citizens is most important for us,” Kush said.

Harris said it also is important for residents to prepare for the days following the snowstorm, as temperatures are anticipated to drop into the single digits, or even below 0 degrees on some days.