TRAVERSE CITY — Snow and icy road conditions are making winter travel difficult across Grand Traverse County, but emergency medical services continue responding to calls — even during severe winter weather.
Central Dispatch 911 Director Corey LeCroux says winter storms do not stop emergencies from happening. Dispatchers continue sending first responders out while balancing fast response times with driver safety.
EMS drivers receive additional winter training, including evasive maneuvers and state-required licensing for operating emergency vehicles with lights and sirens. Dispatchers also use a priority system to determine how calls are handled, ensuring crews respond appropriately based on urgency and road conditions.
Winter weather can also impact what type of vehicle is sent to an emergency. In some cases, ambulances may not be able to safely reach a location, prompting dispatchers to send four-wheel-drive vehicles, pickup trucks, or even snowmobiles and ATVs.
Location plays a key role in response planning. Calls at well-plowed facilities are typically easier to access, while incidents on unplowed roads or snowmobile trails may require coordination with fire departments or the sheriff’s office.
Dispatchers say residents can help reduce delays by keeping address signs visible and driveways and walkways clear. They also encourage people to slow down, stay off the roads when possible, and prepare for winter conditions before storms hit.