Here is a list of key contacts and links for road conditions and emergencies:

• Hourly PMC Weather Forecast (Weather Channel)

• Current Weather Updates (NOAA)

• Snow Totals in the Area

• Kern County Road Conditions

• SigAlert Updates

• California Highway Patrol Traffic Incidents (CHP)

• Frazier Mountain Internet Sawmill Mt./Mt. Abel Webcam

• Life-Threatening Emergencies: Dial 911.

• PMC Weather Report: (661) 242-4017 for local weather updates.

• Sheriff’s Office: Kern County Sheriff (661) 245-3440 for non-emergency law enforcement assistance.

• Kern County Roads: Kern Public Works (661-248-6535) for county road updates.

• California Highway Patrol (CHP):

  • Lebec Office: CHP Lebec (661-248-6655)

  • Statewide Road Conditions: (800-427-7623)

  • Traffic Accidents: (661-334-3913) or (661-864-4444), and Weekends: (661-864-4400)

• US Forest Service: (661-245-3449) for updates on forest roads and access.

• Local Weather Updates: KERO 23 News Weather Line (661-637-1010).

These contacts will provide weather updates, road conditions, and emergency assistance as needed. Stay informed and drive safely!

Extreme Temperature Survival Guide

Plan Ahead

• Avoid travel if possible; postpone non-essential trips during storms.

• Check road conditions before leaving (links available on our website).

• Share your travel route and estimated arrival time with someone.

• Winterize your vehicle: use antifreeze, check wipers, ensure a strong battery, and install snow tires with at least 6/32” tread.

Emergency kit for your car

• Essentials: Tire chains, blankets, tow strap, jumper cables, flashlight, ice scraper, tools, and extra clothing.

• Supplies: Water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a sleeping bag.

• Fuel: Keep your gas tank at least half full.

Safety reminders

• Keep children and pets away from roads and snow berms.

• Always carry tire chains and follow signage (R-1 or R-2 conditions).

• Do not shovel snow into the road—it’s hazardous and illegal.

• Maintain a safe distance from snowplows; do not follow closely or attempt to pass.

Home emergency supplies

• Stock up on non-perishable food, water (minimum five days), and medication.

• Prepare warm clothing, blankets, gloves, and an alternate heat source like kerosene or wood.

• Keep a wired phone, extra batteries, NOAA radio, cash, and a snow shovel handy.

• Use cat litter or sand for traction on icy surfaces.

• Develop and practice a family emergency plan.

• Ensure propane tanks are full and alternate heat sources are ready.

By staying prepared and following these guidelines, you can navigate winter safely and effectively!

If you experience a private emergency, such as a fire or medical issue, that requires snow removal, follow these steps:

• Contact emergency services: Dial 911 to report the emergency to the Sheriff’s Office.

• Emergency response coordination: If the Sheriff’s Office or another emergency responder contacts PMCPOA, snow removal operators will immediately respond to assist.

• PMCPOA support: PMCPOA will dispatch personnel to assist during emergencies as directed by emergency responders.

Always prioritize contacting 911 for any life-threatening or urgent emergencies to ensure a swift and coordinated response.

In severe weather conditions, your safety should always come first. Here are some tips and considerations:

Monitor weather conditions: Stay informed via TV, radio, internet, or phone.

Assess your vehicle’s suitability:

• Ensure your tires are appropriate for heavy snow conditions.

• Be aware of your vehicle’s ground clearance and its capabilities in snow.

Prepare for travel:

• Avoid icy roads when possible.

• Use tire chains if required.

• Check and restock your car’s emergency supplies before leaving.

Plan ahead:

• If possible, reschedule appointments or commitments to avoid traveling during severe weather.

• Consider whether it’s safer to delay travel and remain in your warm, dry home rather than risking getting stuck or waiting hours for assistance.

Emergency assistance: In true emergencies, PMCPOA will do its best to assist you while prioritizing the safety of the community and snow removal operations.

Your safety and well-being are the top priority. Always err on the side of caution when deciding whether to travel in severe weather conditions.

To ensure safety and efficient snow removal, please avoid the following:

• Parking on roadways: Please don’t park vehicles on or near roadways during snowstorms. Not only will obstructing vehicles be towed at the owner’s expense, but any street with parked cars won’t be plowed. And let’s be honest - blocking snow removal is not exactly the fastest way to make friends with your neighbors!

• Playing near roads: Avoid playing, skiing, tobogganing, sledding, or snowmobiling on roadways, snow berms, or roadway edges. Snowplows, cars, and trucks cannot stop quickly on snow and ice.

• Children and pets: Do not allow children or pets to play on roadways, in snow berms, or near roadway edges.

• Parking in restricted areas: Do not park in restricted areas of PMC parking lots.

Important reminder: Parking on PMC roads is strictly prohibited. If your property lacks sufficient on-site parking clear of snow removal activities, consider carpooling or shuttling guests from public parking lots. Vehicles left on roadways will be towed at the owner’s expense.

By following these guidelines, you help maintain safety and efficiency for everyone in the community.

Residents can support snow removal efforts and ensure community safety by following these guidelines:

Post Visible House Numbers:

• Use lighted or reflective numbers visible from both directions.

• Mount them on a stable post or surface not blocked by snowbanks or foliage.

• Ensure numbers are placed on your property, not on easements.

Park Off the Street: Always park vehicles well off the roadway to avoid tickets, citations, or towing.

Keep Children Safe: Advise children not to play near or in snow berms close to roadways.

Be Patient Around Snow Removal Equipment:

• Maintain a safe distance from snow removal vehicles.

• Wait patiently if required to drive behind snowplows or other equipment.

Drive Cautiously: Adjust your speed to match road conditions.

Avoid Interacting with Snowplows: Do not flag down or approach snowplow drivers, as stopping these vehicles is extremely difficult. For assistance, contact the Business Office at (661) 242-3788 or the Patrol Line at (661) 242-3857.

Know Responsibilities:

• Kern County Roads: Responsible for clearing snow on Mil Potrero Highway.

• PMCPOA: Responsible for clearing snow on Mil Potrero FTC (the access road adjacent to Mil Potrero Highway) AND ALL OTHER PMC ROADS.

By working together, we can ensure safer and more efficient snow removal in our community!