NTPD: Remember to 'Turn Around, Don't Drown'

In preparation for Hurricane Sandy, the Northampton Township Police Department reminds the community to follow traffic-control devices warning of hazardous conditions, in order to remain safe and avoid fines.

Chief Barry Pilla wants to remind motorists of their obligation to driver safety. The recent amendment to "Obedience to Traffic-Control Devices Warning of Hazardous Conditions" says that "The driver of any vehicle, unless otherwise directed by an emergency service responder, shall not drive past, around or through a sign or traffic-control device closing a road or highway due to an existing or potentially hazardous condition."

Those who ignore traffic-control devices or road closure signs can be subjected to a fine of $250 to $500. Additionally, if convicted, the person will be responsible for the cost of fire and police response and emergency medical service or emergency preparedness response resulting from the offense.

If Hurricane Sandy does impact the Northampton Township community, Pilla said that everyone should cooperate to minimize the impact the storm has on the community.

"One way to work towards that affect is to fully [cooperate] with emergency services personnel and NEVER drive around barricades or into unknown depths of water across roadways," Pilla said.

Patch will keep you posted about what roads are closed due to downed trees or wires and flooding. If you know of a closure that we haven't reported, tell us in the comments.

Related: New Law Penalizes Drivers Who Ignore Barricades