What emergency transportation warnings mean

After being pummeled with ice and snow over the last few weeks and a major storm heading toward us, it seems a good time to remind people about emergency travel orders.

One of the biggest questions asked, is when a local emergency is declared on county roads, is it still OK to drive to work?

When the county commissioners declare an emergency they have the option of choosing one of four levels.

* A level one emergency restricts travel to emergency personnel only.

* A level two warning means conditions threaten public safety. Only essential traffic is recommended, such as to and from work and for emergency situations. Businesses, schools, government agencies and other organizations should implement their emergency action plans to determine if travel is required.

* A level three watch means routine travel or activities may be restricted in an area because of a hazardous situation. The public should use caution or avoid these areas. Schools and businesses may implement their emergency action plans.

* A level four caution is to be issued when a condition may develop that limits or hinders travel or activities in isolated areas. No travel restrictions are reported but citizens should be alert to changing conditions.

None of the levels carry any penalties. However, police have the discretion of issuing tickets for people who cause traffic hazards by being on the road.