Jan 21, 2025
DAVIDSON COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP) -- Winter weather preparations are in full swing across Davidson County with officials anticipating significant challenges on the roads due to below-freezing temperatures. Road conditions are expected to become slick, prompting first responders to ensure they can quickly address any emergencies that drivers may encounter. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has been proactive, treating interstate routes like I-85 with brine and salt throughout the day. Additionally, the NCDOT has deployed skeleton crews to monitor road conditions overnight that are ready to handle any icy spots or snow accumulation that may occur. The Central Volunteer Fire Department in Lexington is also gearing up for what could be a demanding night on the roads. Captain Maurice “Mo” Hodges says last week during a similar storm, about fifty percent of calls were crash-related.  “We’ve got about five miles of highway that we service, and then we have our rural areas and a lot of our agricultural areas, and so we serve all those different kinds of incidents from wrecks to house fires,” Hodges said. In a small community like Lexington, many drivers are familiar with every road and shortcut, which enhances the effectiveness of the CVFD when responding to calls. However, this familiarity can also pose risks.  “They get that comfort feeling that, 'Hey, I know this road. I know my car. I know what I can handle.' When you add weather conditions on top of that and the distraction that people get into, it doesn’t take but a split second, and you’re across the yellow line or you’re off the white line or you’re in a ditch,” Hodges said. As a volunteer department, responders balance full-time jobs and family responsibilities with their commitment to serving the community. They often rush out at a moment’s notice.  “They’re dads or sons, and they want to be at home with their family to make sure they’re safe, and they have to take a little dedication of like, 'Well, I’m going to go help our neighbor that needs help' and just hope to God that their family is safe while they’re gone. And then they put their lives in danger getting on these slippery roads,” Hodges said. With today’s forecast taking a sharper turn for wintry weather, the CVFD decided to call in more volunteers, hoping they won’t have to put themselves or drivers at risk if conditions become too dangerous. “If it gets too bad, just pull over somewhere ... Maybe there’s someone else that’s got a better-equipped vehicle that could come get you and get you home ... We are glad to have somebody come get you and get your car the next day. Would rather you be home safe,” Hodges said.
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